This Week At OOPS

A Visit to an Indigenous Garden

Just before the Easter holidays, Jen McCann, Mandy, and Meika were warmly invited to visit Antonio Park’s newly cultivated Indigenous Garden – a vibrant and educational space filled with native plants, traditional knowledge, and meaningful stories.

Tucked away at the rear of the school grounds, the garden is a beautiful blend of plants traditionally used by First Nations peoples. Developed by the school in partnership with local Elders and community members, it serves not only as a learning resource but also as a place for reflection and respect. The garden is thoughtfully divided into sections such as food/nutrition and medicine, each with clear explanations of the plants’ properties and uses. Each area is watched over by tall, hand-crafted animal statues that add a creative and cultural touch to the space.

For 8-year-old Meika Wilson, the visit was more than just an outdoor adventure – it was a moment of personal connection. As she explored the garden with the other children, Meika discovered that one of her own family members had once worked at the school. She left with new knowledge, a big smile, and two freshly laid eggs from the school’s very own chickens!

The visit also included a special children’s tour that shared the history of the land and explained how each plant plays a role in traditional healing, ceremonies, and everyday life. The garden reflects Antonio Park School’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and inclusive education. Like many schools, including Old Orchard Primary, First Peoples’ knowledge is being thoughtfully integrated across the curriculum, helping students explore different ways of learning and deepening their connection to the natural world.

At Old Orchard, we are excited to begin creating our own Indigenous Garden – a place where students can connect, create, explore, and grow in empathy and respect for Country and culture.