Overview: We collaborated with Marrickville High School to establish a school garden that serves as both an educational tool and a source of fresh produce. The project involved setting up 12 of our Foodcube raised garden wicking beds, providing a sustainable and efficient way to grow vegetables. While it's a modest start, the impact on the school community has been significant.
Garden Club: Two dedicated teachers lead a vibrant garden club consisting of 10 enthusiastic students. The club meets every Wednesday, and the students actively participate in planting, maintaining, and harvesting the garden. The abundance of produce they've cultivated has led them to create veggie bags, which they distribute among the school's teachers—a fantastic way to share the fruits of their labor.
Inclusive Participation: In addition to the garden club, the project has also involved other students who find it challenging to sit still in a traditional classroom setting. These students contribute to the garden on Mondays, finding a hands-on and engaging way to channel their energy productively.
Community Involvement: The school community has embraced the project, with parents organizing working bees to support the garden's ongoing maintenance and growth. This involvement not only strengthens the garden but also fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility.
Future Goals: The school principal has expressed interest in expanding the garden into a full-fledged agricultural program in the future. While this goal is still in the early stages, the garden provides a solid foundation to build upon. The project exemplifies how starting small and growing gradually can create lasting change in a school community.
Impact:
- Provided fresh produce for the school community
- Engaged students in hands-on learning experiences
- Fostered community involvement and collaboration
- Laid the groundwork for future agricultural education initiatives