Our ‘Sustainable Futures project’ is a collaborative curriculum initiative between the Science, Humanities and Mathematics faculties. The practical nature of our project offers students an opportunity to participate in hands on practical learning that equips them with the skills and knowledge that will be useful in all aspects of their lives. Student’s love ‘Project Thursdays and are always enthusiastic and engaged in whatever the activities are.

Since the last bulletin article students have been involved in a number of projects both in school and at Te Puea Orchard.

All three classes (9 Awhi, 9 Mana and 10 Aro) have been involved in making sustainable bird feeders for our hungry native birds.

Our bird feeders were made out of cardboard, peanut butter, bird seed and string. Once made the students then placed them in trees around the school. During the process students have learnt about the native birds that live in our school environment and have enjoyed the birds nibble away at the bird feeders.

Students have also recently planted a crop of garlic. This was done on the shortest day which is in accordance with the Maramataka.

We are also very grateful to have an ongoing relationship with the Te Puea Orchard volunteers. Te Puea Orchard is run by Kai Rotorua which aims to reconnect people with Papatuanuku through Kai. 9 Awhi have visited a few times over the last month to help staff prepare for the growing season. They have help lay weed mat, cleared garden space and helped with digging over soil. 

On our most recent visit to the orchard students dug up Raspberry canes, learnt how to prune them and then replanted them for the coming season. We also dug the last of the carrots, which we had for morning tea. It was an awesome experience for 9 Awhi and students are looking forward to harvesting time. We would like to thank Te Puea Orchard for their ongoing support.

If you have an interest in, expertise or suggestions we would absolutely love your input and support. We are also on the lookout for any old garden tools you may like to donate. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Geraldine Cunningham at gcunningham@rghs.school.nz or Miss Kylie Hill at khill@rghs.school.nz.

We will continue to provide regular updates on the ‘Sustainable Futures’ project and the positive impacts that it is having on student learning and engagement and teacher student relationships.

Geraldine Cunningham
Science and Humanities