Learners’ Knowledge of Environmental Education in Selected Primary Schools of Tshwane North District, Gauteng Province

Abstract

This study focused on determining the level of environmental education knowledge and skills among primary school learners in South Africa under the National Curriculum Statement Grades R-12. Environmental education is important in the promotion of sustainable environmental conservation, and reducing negative effects which are caused by adverse climatic conditions. We used qualitative approach for data collection from eight primary schools located North Tshwane District of Gauteng province through interviews and observations. The sample comprise teachers, the learners and non-teaching staffs working in the schools. The findings from interviews suggest that the curriculum offers learners adequate environmental education knowledge in the Social Science and Natural Science subjects. Similarly, results from observations show, from visual sights of the surroundings of the schools, that the school compounds have gardens, tree nurseries and tree plantations, and clean environment around the school compound. In conclusion, learners are provided with adequate environmental education knowledge and they are able to contribute towards maintaining clean environments and conservation in their communities.