At Gowrie NSW, our AMEP Early Learning Centres play a vital role in providing education and care to children whose families are enrolled in the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) at TAFE NSW. The AMEP is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. As some of the first introductions to life in Australia, our educators are dedicated to helping children settle into their new environment while sharing Australia’s values, culture, and history.
Inspiring Children to Care for the Environment
St George ELC received a grant from the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grant. These grants support Australian primary schools and early learning centres in inspiring children to care for the environment.
Introducing 'Walking Together, Growing Together'
At St George ELC we are thrilled to embark on a transformative project that aligns perfectly
with our commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural understanding. Our project, titled “Walking Together, Growing Together,” aims to revitalise a previously unused space in our playground, creating an engaging environment for learning and connection.
Through this initiative, we will cultivate a rich habitat filled with native plants, grasses, and bush tucker species. By thoughtfully selecting indigenous plants suited to our local conditions, we will save on water and maintenance while supporting local bird and insect populations
Connecting With Country
Central to our project is a deep respect for First Nations Peoples and their knowledge of land stewardship. Children will learn about the vital connections between people, plants, and the environment. They will explore where our food comes from, the importance of composting, and the benefits of reducing packaging and transport emissions. This hands-on approach fosters a profound understanding of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Our collaboration with Indigi Grow, an Indigenous plant nursery, and the local council has highlighted the importance of protecting endangered indigenous species. This awareness fuels our commitment to contributing to wildlife and biodiversity corridors, reinforcing our responsibility within the ecosystem.
Building Community Connections
“Walking Together, Growing Together” is not just about planting; it’s about fostering relationships. We are excited to engage with the local Aboriginal Land Council, junior Landcare groups, local Elders, and our families. This project will deepen our ties to the community and promote reconciliation, aligning with our Centre values and vision.
Children will have opportunities to connect with their heritage meaningfully, learning to value cultural identity and mutual respect. By collaborating with their peers and engaging with First Nations people, they will enhance their sense of belonging and confidence.
Language and Exploration
As children engage with our project, they will also be introduced to Indigenous plant names, enriching their vocabulary and encouraging exploration. They will hypothesise, predict, and develop a nuanced understanding of the interdependence between land, people, and plants. This experiential learning will allow them to reflect on their own information-gathering methods, cultivating critical thinking skills.
Wellbeing Benefits and a Sustainable Future
The well-being benefits of this project are immense. Being immersed in nature enhances mood, reduces stress, and fosters relaxation. Our children will not only develop environmentally responsible habits but also build strong relationships with their peers and their environment.
This ongoing project will embed a sustainability focus in our daily routines and practices, shaping our children into environmentally responsible citizens. By fostering a connection to nature and our shared cultural heritage, we are nurturing a generation that will value and protect our planet.
At St George Early Learning Centre, we are excited to embark on this journey of growth, learning, and connection. Together, we are committed to making a positive impact on our children, our community, and the environment.
Topics: News, Early Education, Children's Programs
