Giving back through growing skills

FOR more than five years, students from The Gordon’s landscaping program have combined hands-on learning with community engagement through a longstanding partnership with Samaritan House Geelong.

Through this partnership, students apply their coursework in a live setting, gaining practical experience that directly benefits the Samaritan House community.

Working on-site, students have actively enhanced the outdoor spaces used by residents every day.

Projects have included landscaping works such as mulching, planting, cultivating garden beds, edging and ongoing grounds maintenance, all designed to improve both functionality and visual appeal.

Students have also been involved in the installation of shared outdoor spaces that provide a welcome place for guests to relax and connect.

These include a timber terrace with seating, a sheltered barbecue and a basketball court, designed for year-round use.

A key highlight of the partnership is the establishment of a low-maintenance, environmentally sustainable native garden, featuring native plant species selected for their resilience and water efficiency.

Designed with minimal upkeep, the garden supports local biodiversity while providing a calming, green space that residents can enjoy throughout the year.

For students, the experience offers more than practical skills development.

Working on a live community site helps build confidence, teamwork and communication skills, while deepening students’ understanding of how their trade can make a positive contribution beyond the classroom.

“It’s a great opportunity for students to get out of the classroom, apply their skills and see the impact of their work in a real environment,” landscaping teacher Anth Johnstone said.

“It reinforces the value of the course, where technical skills, teamwork and community awareness come together.”

Through this partnership, landscape apprentices at The Gordon gain valuable hands-on experience while contributing to greener spaces within the local community.

If you are looking for a career outdoors, applications are now open to study horticulture at The Gordon starting in July.

Visit thegordon.edu.au for more information and to apply today.

//SPONSORED CONTENT