Educational Eco Garden | Albury West Public School

This blossomed out of an Eco Schools grant from the NSW Environmental Trust to support environmental management projects that assist schools with environmental learning opportunities for students, teachers and the school community. The Trust is administered by the NSW government and the Office of Environment and Heritage.

These Eco Schools’ projects provide hands-on curriculum-based environmental education focussing on strong student participation.

This project was developed in three phases: research and engagement; planning and construction; community expansion, with learning for students, staff and community woven throughout. The establishment of a unique space that provides diverse experiences for learners and educators builds on and strengthens an environment focused community. The garden revolves around a vegetable and herb garden; bush tucker garden and meeting place.

The Educational Eco Garden is central to a cross curriculum plan for students K-6. Learning outcomes are achieved through arts based strategies based in a philosophy of community engagement.

The intended focus of the project was to develop a culture around environmental sustainability within the school; one where a relationship with the environment is recognised, valued and through the formation of ongoing partnerships the garden is supported, maintained and further developed.