By Jennifer Kent
MALENY State School are putting the ‘action’ in Kids In Action, with students spending the last few months learning the importance of keeping our waterways healthy. Year five students have been focusing their attention on local waterways, in particular, the Obi Obi Creek, home to the beautiful – and elusive – platypus.
Thanks to some very enthusiastic teachers in Kate Stassen and Caroline Hartley, the program has been reintroduced into the school after a few years’ hiatus. Kids in Action is a Sunshine Coast Council award-winning environmental program for school-age children and this year celebrates its 10-year anniversary with the theme ‘Catchment Connections: Mountains to the Sea’.
Kate, the school’s enrichment centre teacher, shared that the inspiration for joining in the project was to connect students with the learning opportunities of exploring waterways.
“We have been visiting the rainforest and creek generally twice a week and students have been able to explore their natural surroundings and use their observational skills. We have been testing the water and conducting lab work – it’s been a great opportunity for students to learn some science skills,” explained Kate.
In addition to science teachings, students also met with local Jinibara elders, learning about the cultural connection with our waterways.
“Students had the opportunity to hear from Jinibara Elder Jason Murphy and learn about the cultural connection and language to do with waterways,” said Kate.
“Inspiration for joining the project was also a desire to engage more with our rainforest which was planted 20 years ago by teachers and students.”
Students from schools all across the Sunshine Coast will come together on Friday September 9 at the Kids in Action Conference, where students will showcase their projects, presenting to other students, faculty and guests.
“Our students are very excited to be presenting at the conference,” Kate shared.
“It also gives students a chance to use their creative presentation skills and public speaking. There’s something for everyone.”