When I was a kid, my weakest subjects were often science. Humanities weren’t so bad because I loved reading, but when a teacher droned on about science, I retreated into a daydream.
The best lessons were interactive—whether it was talking or doing an experiment. I’m pretty sure it’s not just me. During my decade as a teacher, I noticed how much children learned when they were moving around and playing games.
(And, actually, it seemed to work pretty well for adults too!)
So with that in mind, here’s five reasons I think composting should be taught in school.
Hands-on science that sticks
While you may not always think about it when you are turning your compost, there’s so much science involved.
From tiny microbes to the magic of decomposition, composting is an easy way for teachers to sneak in biology and chemistry—without the yawns.
Turn learning into an adventure
I have yet to meet a child who is not interested in my worm farm!
In fact, when a shy, retiring child visits my house during a party, I find a trip to see my chickens and my worms instantly brings them out of their shell. And when learning is fun, you learn more!
Get kids outside and moving
Let’s face it—humans were simply not designed to sit in a classroom for hours on end and passively receive information. For some kids, it’s torture.
Modern society demands that much of our childhood is spent this way, but when we have an opportunity to combine learning with outside time and physical activity, we should grasp it with both hands.
You’ll create lifelong gardeners and composters
For some of us, there’s an instinct to grow things.
So while not every child will enjoy composting, some will unleash a hidden urge to garden, which could translate into a lifetime of pleasure, physical activity, and healthy home-grown veg.
Kids can teach parents a thing or two
We often think of ourselves as handing knowledge down to our children, but it’s a two-way street.
(I know from experience—my mother only gave up cigarettes because a young me came home from nursery upset after a lesson on the dangers of smoking.)
And the enthusiasm doesn’t stop at school—kids have a way of bringing new ideas home, meaning more families could start composting without even realizing it.
Final thoughts
Should composting be part of every child’s education? If we want to raise environmentally conscious, hands-on learners who engage with the world around them, then yes—it absolutely should be.
FAQs
What are the benefits of teaching composting in schools?
Teaching composting helps kids understand the science of decomposition. There are multiple angles here, with everything from the food-soil web to the role of different bacteria and funghi. It also reduces school waste, and encourages sustainable habits that can last a lifetime.
How can schools start a composting program?
Schools can start small with classroom worm bins or larger outdoor composting setups. Partnering with local gardening groups or sustainability organizations can also provide support.
Do schools need special equipment to compost?
Not necessarily. Simple compost bins (which can even be made by the children), kitchen scraps, and garden space are enough to get started. If your school has less outdoor space you can use small-scale solutions like bokashi bins or vermicomposting.
Can composting really make a difference for the environment?
Absolutely! Composting helps landfill waste, lowers methane emissions, and enriches soil—helping to create a more sustainable planet.
Interested in starting composting at home or in your community, or even teaching it? See the links below to learn more: