This term, our Prep and Year 1 students have been busy learning in the Kitchen Garden, where curiosity, discovery, and fun go hand in hand. The garden provided a rich learning environment for students to connect science, technology, and sustainability in age-appropriate and joyful ways.
In Prep, students were introduced to early coding through the use of Beebots. They programmed the little robots to move through simple pathways, learning how directions and sequences work in a playful and hands-on way. Alongside this, students planted seeds and carefully tended to them, developing patience and responsibility. They also tasted fresh produce and explored how insects interact with plants, noticing the many relationships that make a garden thrive. A special thank you goes to Mrs Rachel Leembruggen, who generously volunteers her time with the Prep classes, helping to make their Kitchen Garden experiences even more memorable.
In Year One, students took on the challenge of coding Code and Go Mice. They designed and built mazes, then programmed their mice to successfully navigate the course and find the cheese. This activity encouraged problem-solving, logical thinking, and persistence. Beyond coding, students got their hands dirty by planting seedlings, investigating the habitats of frogs, and sampling a wide variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables. These experiences not only connected to their science and technology learning but also deepened their understanding of how living things depend on each other in an ecosystem.
Both Prep and Year 1 students showed great enthusiasm and resilience as they combined digital technology with gardening and environmental discovery. The Kitchen Garden has been a place of joy, teamwork, and learning that will continue to grow with them in the years ahead.
As we reflect on these experiences, we are reminded of the importance of spending time with God in the Garden. Just as the students learned to nurture plants and care for creation, we too can grow our relationship with God when we pause in His presence. In the garden, we discover how to honour others with kindness and gratitude, living out the love and care He has shown us.
We are always looking for volunteers and donations of gardening items.
Jamie Simmonds, Primary Teacher
