The Burns Creek Learning Space is a community-based early childhood education initiative operated by The Salvation Army in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Located in one of the city’s largest informal settlements, the Learning Space provides free early learning opportunities for vulnerable children who would otherwise have limited access to quality early childhood education.
The Salvation Army has served communities across the Solomon Islands since 1986, delivering programs focused on education, poverty alleviation, family support and community development. Through the Burns Creek Learning Space, it provides a safe and nurturing environment where approximately 80 children each year can develop foundational skills, build confidence and prepare for their transition to primary school.
Despite the dedication of staff and volunteers, the Learning Space faces significant infrastructure challenges. The outdoor learning and play area lacks permanent shade, exposing children to intense tropical sun and heavy rainfall and restricting opportunities for outdoor activities. Inside the facility, deteriorating flooring presents safety hazards and limits accessibility.
Recognising the importance of a safe and inclusive learning environment, The Salvation Army approached Make A Mark Australia (MAMA) for assistance in improving the facility and supporting the continued delivery of early childhood education to children in the Burns Creek community.
MAMA’s response
MAMA is supporting The Salvation Army Solomon Islands District to improve the safety, accessibility and functionality of the Burns Creek Learning Space through essential infrastructure upgrades.
The project aims to:
- Create a safer outdoor learning environment by constructing a permanent shade structure, protecting children and educators from the tropical sun and rain while enabling outdoor learning and play throughout the year.
- Improve safety and accessibility by repairing damaged flooring within the existing learning facility, removing hazards and creating a more inclusive environment for children of all abilities.
- Strengthen early childhood learning opportunities by providing teachers and volunteers with improved facilities to deliver engaging educational activities and support children’s development and readiness for formal schooling.
The project will directly benefit over 80 children and their families each year, while also supporting educators, caregivers and the wider Burns Creek community.
With the involvement of local community members and a commitment from The Salvation Army to ongoing maintenance, the improvements are designed to deliver lasting benefits and strengthen the sustainability of this important community resource.
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, play and grow in a safe and supportive environment. Through this project, MAMA is helping The Salvation Army create better opportunities for some of Honiara’s most vulnerable children, ensuring that modest improvements to essential infrastructure can make a meaningful and lasting difference to their education, wellbeing and future.
