Bechnotechno's Adventures

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Switzerland | Tuesday, November 8, 2011 | 5 photos

I am an Australian Early Learning Teacher (Reggio Inspired, IB PYP, Apple Distinguished Educator) in International Schools. After living and working in Japan for four years, I am now enjoying the adventure of life in Switzerland.

Here, I have been introduced to an educational movement called 'Waldkinder'. When translated from German it means ‘wald’ (wood) and ‘kinder’ (children). These Forest Kindergartens are schools where young children spend their days, regardless of the weather conditions, out of doors exploring in nature.

In my class (of four and five year olds), we visit the forest behind our school each week, which is the place where my photographs are taken. In 'Waldkinder' we are able to discover about ourselves, others and the world around us. It is a time and place where we can stretch our imaginations and surprise our senses. There are numerous benefits of learning in nature, in particular we can participate in collaborative projects, develop our self-confidence and social competences, as well as be fascinated while observing, interacting and connecting with nature.

Photography is a powerful medium to capture, document and make visible the thinking and learning of the young child (my primary role as a teacher). These moments can then be shared and celebrated not just with the children, but their families and our wider communities.

I am an active and adventurous traveler. I like to be out exploring, learning about places, both near and far, and experiencing life in different cultures. The best part of traveling for me is making connections with people. I love to take photographs of ordinary and extraordinary moments and scenes. My current goal (both professionally and personally) is to challenge myself to nurturing who I am and who I can be.