Hands-on education in the garden
Autumn is here and it's a great time to start planting winter vegetables.
Growing a kitchen garden or food garden has become increasingly popular in schools and homes. It's a great way to learn about sustainability, science and nutrition – all while enjoying the outdoors.
Schools across NSW have created food gardens to involve students in many different issues. Some focus on sustainability and healthy eating and sell produce to the school canteen or local markets, other gardens are designed and built by students as a research project.
Many schools are recycling food scraps and using them as garden compost – returning valuable nutrients to the earth and reducing the need for artificial fertilizers.
Community volunteers and business partners are a crucial part of school garden projects. Local hardware stores, nurseries, parents, community members and TAFEs, share their skills and materials with schools. Contact your local school if you would like to offer support to a garden project.
Register with Sustainable Schools NSW to receive updates on grants and funding opportunities, including the new Environmental Trust Food gardens in Schools Program.
Further information