By Jodie Symonds
THE Patch Primary School has become a leading school in sustainability by winning the 2016 ResourceSmart Schools Award.
In Victoria’s largest sustainability awards program, The Patch Primary School was recognised for their innovative sustainability projects.
The award was presented on Friday 11 November at the Melbourne Museum, and State Member for Monbulk James Merlino attended The Patch Primary School on Wednesday 16 November to congratulate the school and students on their efforts.
“It’s a fantastic achievement that The Patch Primary School can stand head and shoulders with Victoria’s best schools,” Mr Merlino said.
Mr Merlino met with The Patch Primary School students Ruby, Gracie, Logan, Darcy and Ted, and Assistant Principal Michelle Rayner.
“It’s great to be recognised for this award, because the students and teachers really have worked so hard,” Ms Rayner said.
The Patch Primary School planted over 2000 indigenous plant species within the school.
The plants extended wildlife corridors, connected earlier plantings to provide continuous canopy and ground cover, expanded their connections to the local community and implemented their award-winning Habitat Plan.
The school developed a range of ecological zones including a swampy riparian forest and wetland, shrubby gully forest and understorey to protect large trees from soil compaction and root damage.
“Taking part in the ResourceSmart Schools Awards gives schools a unique opportunity for schools to share their experience and also learn from other Victorian schools that are excelling in the area of sustainability,” Mr Merlino said.
For more information, visit www.thepatchps.vic.edu.au
