We aimed to achieve the following objectives through the implementation of the project: To integrate themes of environmental management, climate change, and global challenges into the preschool and primary school curriculum and learn new practices, tools, and approaches in this field. To explore good practices in the 'education in nature' approach, integrate them into the lesson outcomes, achieve lasting learning, and increase nature-based teaching practices. To enhance life skills in ecological literacy and global citizenship and transfer innovative professional approaches to 90 preschool and 205 classroom teachers in Erdemli. Furthermore, through our project, we contributed to increasing teachers' awareness of environmental issues and ecological integrity, thus helping them become 'lifelong learners' and 'global citizens.' We integrated nature education and education in nature practices into teachers' professional development, thereby introducing open-air classrooms, outdoor activities, and nature-based educational practices into our schools. Our goal was to enhance students' interaction with nature and equip them with the skills to make informed decisions for environmental integrity and a just society.
Erdemli District Directorate of National Education serves 120 schools in the Erdemli district of Mersin province with a staff consisting of one director, three branch directors, clerks, technicians, workers, and service personnel, totaling 60 employees. We provide educational services to 31,887 students and 2,057 teachers. Our organization continues its educational and instructional activities in line with the norms and objectives of the Ministry of National Education. Furthermore, we have been actively involved in numerous local, national, and international projects with the aim of enhancing the quality of education, embracing innovative practices, promoting equal opportunities, contributing to the quality of services, and supporting not only academic achievement but also social development. Our institution offers multiple educational programs, including 55 preschool and primary school programs, and within this scope, we manage an application area encompassing 160 preschools, 455 classroom teachers, and 12,307 students.