On Thursday, our Year 5 classes had the wonderful opportunity to experience a Tucker Bush incursion.
School bush-food gardens are all about creating a rich learning environment where students can get their hands dirty and develop a deeper connection with nature. Throughout the experience, our students learnt about biodiversity, native plant species, soil, water, pests, beneficial insects, and how the Australian climate and ecosystems affect the food we eat.
Learning about native foods also means learning about culture, community and caring for Country. It invites respect for seasons, elements and the responsibilities that come with harvesting and sharing food. It helps us understand a way of living that prioritises nourishment, sustainability and intergenerational wellbeing.
Here’s what some of our Year 5 students had to say about their experience:
“First, we went outside and Mark showed us a whole bunch of native Australian plants, and he let us smell and taste them. After, we all got the plants and planted them. Everyone got a different one to plant in the Indigenous garden. We all showed how dirty our hands got. Mark said that gardening makes you happy.
Then we spoke with Aunty Dale about all different stories about her and her ancestors. She even told us about some of the leaves and how they can be natural medicine. One of the leaves was called peppermint and the more you crush it up, the stronger the smell gets. She shared lots of stories about Aboriginal culture. We loved it SO much!”
Ayvah, Iyla, Charli, Luca and Alisha
Year 5 Students
We would like to thank Miss Julia for organising this engaging and informative incursion once again. You are a legend! 🌿
Alexis Kiernan, Martina Sweeney and Amanda Salt
Year 5 Teachers
