Ministry of Science, Education and Youth verifies two new workshops of the Public Institute of Krka NP

The Ministry of Science, Education and Youth has verified two new educational workshops of the Public Institute of Krka National Park: “Thread by Thread to an Apron” and “Forest Workshop” in the area of extracurricular activities for children of preschool age, and pupils in Šibenik-Knin County

This brings the number of verified workshops of the Public Institute of Krka National Park up to seven, making this the leading institution among protected areas in Croatia when it comes to educational programmes.

Previous verified workshops are: “Let’s Give More for the Bats”, “I Feel Like Wearing Green”, “3R”, “Mini/Little Rangers”, and “The Magical World of Dragonflies”. All workshops are designed and implemented by the staff of the Public Institute of Krka National Park, transferring their knowledge, love of nature, and awareness of the importance of its conservation to children.

The educational programmes of the Public Institute of Krka National Park are intended for all ages, from preschool children to secondary school pupils, and are free for all preschools and schools in Šibenik-Knin County. The programmes are carried out with the recommendation of the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth, based on the expert opinion of the Education Agency, which has highlighted the value of their contribution to the fundamental competencies of pupils and acting responsibly towards nature.

The workshops and lectures are divided into three groups by age: preschool, primary school, and secondary school. For the youngest, workshops are play-based on focus on plants, animals, and nature conservation, while for older children the content is interactive, with experiments and expert guides.

The workshop “Thread by thread to an Apron” nurtures the tangible heritage through familiarisation with the traditional weaving craft. Learning about the significance of sheep farming and the uses of wool, children learn about the process of making woollen cloth, from sheep shearing and washing the wool, to weaving on child-sized looms and making decorations. “Forest Workshop” offers children a true first-hand experience of nature and forests, in the centuries-old pubescent oak forest at the Stinice location. Through activities such as identifying the bark of different tree species, exploring the microworld of insects, and identifying the smells and sounds of nature, children develop a sensory connection with the environment and an understanding of natural processes.

From 2008 to 2024, a total of 1098 workshops have been held by the Public Institute of Krka National Park, with more than 29,000 children participating. In 2024 alone, 160 workshops were held for 3107 children.

“We are proud of this great interest, and even more of the benefits that arise from our activities, both for the children acquiring new knowledge, and for nature that is viewed through different eyes,” stated Nella Slavica, director of the Public Institute of Krka National Park.

An important segment of the educational activities of the Institute is the project “Filling School Libraries”, launched in 2007 with the aim of donating books to primary and secondary schools in Šibenik-Knin County. In addition to familiarising children with the nature and cultural heritage of the park, this project also aims to stimulate a love of reading and learning about nature.

The Public Institute of Krka National Park has also been recognised for its adaptability: during the pandemic, the institute quickly introduced online workshops and DIY videos posted on the park’s YouTube channel, to enable children to continue learning and creating at home. The channel also includes educational films such as “Look, the Krka” and “When I Think of the Krka”, which are useful for teachers and other educational personnel.

Park staff regularly take part in numerous events organised by preschools, schools, societies, and the local community, especially those intended for children. Special attention is given to ensuring uniform access to each school and age group: they enjoy visiting schools full of children just as much as they enjoy coming to a class with only a single pupil.

The Public Institute of Krka National Park has continued to develop educational content that connects nature, culture and education, to promote a responsible and sustainable relationship with the environment, and thus confirming that this is an example of good practices in Croatia.