Growing minds and green spaces with Schools Tree Day

Planet Ark calls on Australian schools to get outside and plant trees this Schools Tree Day as new research highlights the positive benefits of outdoor learning

Schools across Australia are being encouraged to take learning outside on Friday, July 25 this year for Schools Tree Day, the nation’s largest tree-planting and nature care event for students.

Schools Tree Day is part of the National Tree Day program and provides young Australians from early learning to high school with a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on environmental learning while gaining significant health and wellbeing benefits.

Research published in MDPI’s Education Sciences journal in January highlighted the powerful impact of outdoor learning on students’ development, showing nature-based activities significantly enhance psychological well-being, social connectivity, and environmental awareness among children and adolescents. By participating in Schools Tree Day, students can experience these benefits firsthand while contributing to a greener future.

Planet Ark, the organisation behind Schools Tree Day and National Tree Day, is calling on teachers and students to get their hands dirty and plant trees in their school grounds or local communities. Planet Ark CEO Rebecca Gilling says that Schools Tree Day is more than just an environmental initiative—it’s an opportunity to support student learning in a meaningful and engaging way.

“Outdoor learning has been proven to boost students’ cognitive and emotional development and Schools Tree Day provides the perfect chance for educators to integrate nature into their curriculum, helping students connect with their environment while improving their overall well-being,” Gilling said.

Since its inception, Schools Tree Day has seen thousands of schools across the country take part, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious students. Educators, parents and students interested in taking part in Schools Tree Day can sign up, access educational resources, and share their experiences by visiting treeday.planetark.org/get-involved/schools.

-- ENDS --

- In 2025, Schools Tree Day will take place on Friday, July 25 while National Tree Day will be celebrated Sunday, July 27.

- New research published in MDPI’s Education Sciences journal shows nature-based activities significantly enhance psychological well-being, social connectivity, and environmental awareness among children and adolescents.

- Planet Ark is calling on schools around Australia to participate in Schools Tree Day as an opportunity for students to engage with nature.

About Planet Ark
Planet Ark Environmental Foundation is an Australian not-for-profit organisation with a vision of a world where people live in balance with nature. Established in 1992, it is one of Australia’s leading environmental behaviour change organisations with a focus on working collaboratively and positively. Planet Ark promotes and creates simple, positive environmental actions – for everyone.

For further information, interviews or images please contact: