Through the Grants for Good funding program, this Queenstown-Lakes District school is transforming its green spaces to nurture its students’ connection with the natural world.
Recently, Hāwea Flat School has undergone significant development due to major growth in the roll, necessitating the relocation of its cherished vegetable gardens. However, adversity often breeds opportunity, and thanks to the generous support of the HealthCarePlus Grants for Good, the school has embarked on a journey to revitalise these garden areas.
Jennie Lyall, a teacher at the Lake Hāwea school and a passionate advocate for ecological sustainability, is the driving force behind the school’s Enviroschools Programme.
“The development of our school and my passion for the outdoors inspired me to initiate this project,” she explained. “It was a need we identified within our community, aligning seamlessly with our values and educational programs.”
With a background in Ecology and a genuine love for native flora and fauna, Jennie brings a unique blend of expertise and enthusiasm to the classroom. As a teacher for Year 3 students her vision goes beyond just textbooks. She and her colleagues aim to instill in students a deep appreciation for their environment and the skills to become stewards of the Earth.
The HealthCarePlus grant, discovered through an email communication, presented itself as a timely catalyst for the school’s aspirations. Jennie describes the application process as “straightforward” and credits the local Enviroschools’ coordinator for their invaluable assistance.
The grant funding proves instrumental in procuring long-lasting materials for rebuilding the vegetable gardens, purchasing propagation tables and establishing a nursery for native plant seedlings—something that is incredibly important for the school’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
“This grant ensures the longevity of our gardening program and sustains our involvement in initiatives like Garden to Table,” Jennie says. “It will impact on our students’ learning, teaching them about the world around them and vital skills for growing their own food. We also hope it will provide food for our local community via local food donation stalls. We hope to use the native plants that we grow in local planting projects, regenerating areas of native bush.”
When asked about advice for prospective grant applicants, Jennie offers her encouragement:
“Don’t hesitate – give it a go! The support from the grant team is invaluable, and seeking guidance from John [HealthCarePlus CEO] and experienced applicants can significantly enhance your application.”
Looking ahead, Hāwea Flat School envisions an enduring gardening programme that fosters community connections and environmental stewardship. Through hands-on learning experiences, students will cultivate essential skills while contributing to local food initiatives and native habitat restoration projects. As they nurture the seeds of knowledge and stewardship, they sow the promise of a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.
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