Five projects across schools in the electorate will see more students with a green thumb thanks to the NSW Government’s $10 million Sustainable Schools Grants.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said this investment by the NSW Government will deliver hands-on, sustainable-focused projects that link to the NSW Curriculum.
“I am thrilled that we have seen two schools being Naradhan Public School and Henry Lawson High School under round three and a further three schools, being Cootamundra Public School, Woodstock Public School and Wyalong Public School under round four in the electorate taking part in this great initiative,” Ms Cooke said.
“Our region is passionate about sustainability and this program inspires and empowers students and schools to develop ideas and implement plans that will benefit the environment by helping to save energy or water, reduce waste, or improve biodiversity.”
“I know the whole community joins me in looking forward to seeing these wonderful projects soon come to life at our local schools.”
Round 3 Schools and projects include:
- Naradhan Public School will receive $15,000 for a sensory, native indigenous garden.
- Henry Lawson High School in Grenfell will receive $15,000 to create its own community produce garden.
Round 4 Schools and projects include:
- Cootamundra Public School will receive $15,000 to establish ‘Waste Busters’ project, to minimise waste and educate students on waste management.
- Woodstock Public School will receive $14,912 to construct Woodstock’s Wholesome Community Food Garden
- Wyalong Public School will receive $15,000 for an inclusive and sustainable Kitchen Garden
Henry Lawson High School Principal, Mr Aaron Flagg said the main objective of this initiative is to create a garden that is open to the public.
“The garden encourages students and the local school community to explore ideas and solutions around sustainable food production, green waste management and reducing food miles by producing locally for school and community use,” Mr Flagg said.
“Initially, the garden will be planned and constructed by our year 7 STEM class as well as other school and community groups to encourage ownership of the garden and to foster long-term participation in food production and management within the community.”
Naradhan Public School Relieving Teaching Principal, Ms Tracy Johnston said Native plants will be used with the aim of teaching our children about bush tucker, and the other uses for plants by our indigenous ancestors
“The garden will be located at the entrance to the school, providing students, staff and visitors with a sensory experience as they walk through the project to the school buildings,” Ms Johnston said.
“We look forward to our students being able to access the garden in the near future.”
The NSW Government is investing $8.6 billion in school infrastructure over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 160 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This builds on the more than $9.1 billion invested in projects delivered since 2017, a program of $17.7 billion in public education infrastructure.
