A selection of junior classes have the privilege to be a part of the ‘Sustainable Futures’ projects for 2022.

A selection of junior classes have the privilege to be a part of the ‘Sustainable Futures’ projects for 2022. Projects have been co-constructed with the students to identify their interests, needs and learning experiences they desire to engage more effectively with our local curriculum. Teachers have dedicated at least one day of curriculum learning to support the students in this project which will see students develop skills and knowledge directly related to life skills essential for independent life. Manaakitanga and whakawhanaungatanga are core values essential for effective relationships. The practical nature of our projects offer a great opportunity for all involved to learn together with skills and knowledge they can find use and meaning for in all aspects of life.

The basic concept behind the project day is to develop four green spaces around the school. Our Rautāwhiri garden and greenhouse (9Awhi), our Rautāwhiri Orchard and Herb garden (9Mana & 10Aro) and a native tree green space. Their learning will start with life cycles, food chain and the process of growing fruit and vegetables. Students will design and construct planter boxes and areas within garden spaces. In addition, we are establishing an ongoing relationship with Te Puea Orchards learning the significance of the Maramataka calendar and the connection to papatuanuku. The aim is to establish the spaces, maintain these spaces throughout the year and in future years to plan programmes of learning around the potential future pathways of students at all year levels in the Science, Business, Hospitality and Agricultural sectors.

This year our focus and learning process of growing fresh herbs, fruit and vegetables students will extend their learning further by preparing menus, producing budgets for grocery shopping, and learning to cook economical meals using basic nutritional needs, energy systems and food safety. Students will create a class recipe book, participate in a mini market day and the final experience will be creating a mock restaurant to put into practice interpersonal skills vital for career pathways such as tourism and hospitality.

We are attempting to secure funding to support this project and staff are contributing to aspects of this project to make this learning experience as meaningful and relevant as possible for students. If you have an interest in, expertise or suggestions we would absolutely love your input and support. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the Accelerated Learning Coordinator Mrs Geraldine Cunningham at gcunningham@rghs.school.nz or Miss Kylie Hill at khill@rghs.school.nz

We are looking forward to an exciting opportunity for staff and students to develop meaningful relationships with whanau, school and community as we utilize the many resources available to enrich the learning of our students.