School sees stars for sustainability

ST Francis of the Fields in Strathfieldsaye has received a five-star ResourceSmart School rating for work towards sustainability.

Last week, principal Tim Moloney was presented with a certificate from ResourceSmart Schools facilitators, and Earthcare Team students presented on projects they’ve undertaken to prioritise the health of the environment every day.

The primary school has been working towards the certification since 2007.

“The school has a long history of involvement in sustainability,” said teacher Lisa Hitchcock. “Across the last 20 years, the school has developed different student teams to lead and support their work in sustainability.

“The school has strongly embedded sustainability practices into their teaching through a dedicated sustainability program, Our Amazing Sustainability in Schools, the use of dedicated recycling and waste management systems, including separating and sorting waste, vegetable gardens and orchard, compost systems, worm farms and chooks, bee and insect hotels and integrated sustainability units of study across all year levels.

“The school is surrounded by farmland and the children assist in the care of the cows, sheep and farm animals where possible.

“The school has been involved in community programs and activities such as creek restoration… Bendigo Foodshare, Coliban Water, and Landcare.”

Named after Francis of Assisi, the school’s goals align with his love of nature as the Patron Saint of the Environment.

“The school is inspired by the spirit and wisdom of Saint Francis of Assisi to live out the values of peace, joy, service, harmony and respect for all people and creation,” Ms Hitchcock said.