The state government has increased its investment into gardens at primary schools across the state, including in Hume and Whittlesea.
Education Minister Natalie Hutchins has announced funding for the Victorian Schools Garden Program would increase from $95,000 a year to $145,000 a year.
Now in its 46th year, the Victorian Schools Garden program has provided rewarding outdoor education initiatives to generations of Victorians.
Ms Hutchins said gardens provide a boost to primary school pupils’ health and wellbeing.
“I’ve seen first-hand how school gardens offer great opportunities for primary school students to learn in an outdoor setting,” she said.
“Sharing the importance of sustainable living and fostering a love of gardening is vital to ensuring that the next generation takes a hands-on approach to caring for the environment.”
The program includes grants to encourage schools to start new gardens or improve existing ones, an awards scheme that recognises and rewards the achievements of students and school communities, and professional development workshops for teachers and volunteers to learn the basics of running a school garden.
Details: vsgp.org.au
