The Concept
Established by skilled and passionate individuals, Farm My School is a not-for-profit association, working to transform unused land within schools, into regenerative market gardens providing food to the local community.
With the aim of developing urban farming that connects farmers with schools, the program brings local food production back into the heart of our communities. The program promotes healthy eating, ecological stewardship and connected communities. By transforming urban spaces, Farm My School utilises permaculture principles, inspiring students to care for the Earth, themselves and the people around them.
The model enables partnerships to be forged between schools and regenerative farmers, creating access to land and a gateway to careers in regenerative agriculture. The commercially-viable market garden becomes the heart of the community, providing produce to school families through the provision of weekly veggie boxes and supplying food to the school canteen.
Deliverables
Education
Health and Wellbeing
Health and Wellbeing
Using the framework of permaculture, Farm My School uses a holistic approach to outdoor learning. This program inspires joy and innovation and empowers students to become leaders in environmental advocacy.
The farm specifically provides opportunities for:
- Inquiry-based and cross-curricular learning, including fulfilling many
- STEM/STEAM outcomes
- Fostering positive student behaviour
- Connecting students to their environment
- Volunteering and leadership development
- Future job skills training and community building experience for students
- An increase in school-community collaborations leading to healthier and engaged relationships
Health and Wellbeing
Health and Wellbeing
Health and Wellbeing
- Promoting health and wellbeing learning outcomes, including improving students’ confidence, resilience and self-esteem
- Encouraging students, families and neighbours to introduce life-long patterns of healthy eating and food literacy
Community Engagement
Health and Wellbeing
Community Engagement
- Providing environmental stewardship and leadership opportunities for local businesses and organisations
- Collaborating with local stakeholders to facilitate positive change
- Supporting connection to Country
- Improving food security
- Supporting climate change mitigation through circular economy practices