Year 10 Horticulture 

Term 3 provided our Year 10 Horticulture students with valuable opportunities to put their practical skills, creativity and faith into action.

Working in small groups, students were challenged to transform a tired garden area within the Senior School. They considered how the space could become more beautiful, functional and welcoming, before planning and carrying out their designs. Through preparing, planting, problem-solving and working collaboratively, students developed practical horticultural skills while discovering the value of contributing to a shared goal.

Students were also encouraged to reflect on one of the MECS Threads and consider how it connected to their project. This created opportunities to explore how our Christian faith influences the way we care for creation, work alongside others and use the gifts God has given us. The garden project particularly highlighted themes of stewardship, service, community, creativity and perseverance. By caring for and revitalising a shared space, students were reminded that even practical, everyday tasks can be an expression of faith and a way of blessing others.

Later in the term, students turned their creativity towards the Father’s Day Stall, designing and producing a variety of items for the school community. This hands-on project allowed students to further develop their practical skills while creating products that could be enjoyed by others.

It has been wonderful to see our students grow in confidence, teamwork and responsibility throughout these experiences. More than simply developing horticultural skills, students have discovered that their abilities can be used with purpose — to serve others, care for God’s creation and make a positive contribution to their community.

Sharon Witt & Anne-Maree Forbes

Year 10 Horticulture Teachers

Student Reflections

‘We wanted our garden to look appealing and cute, with colourful plants and decorative features that would catch people’s attention. We also wanted to create a happier looking space that would hopefully uplift people’s moods and make them feel more positive when they visited.’

‘Our garden reflected the thread ‘Community Builder’ because we focused on creating a welcoming, shared space that everyone can enjoy and benefit from. We wanted to make the area feel warmer and more inviting, where people could feel comfortable. By working together to improve the space, we helped strengthen a sense of community and encouraged people to spend time outdoors in a positive and supportive environment.’

‘Our Garden connects to our MECS thread ‘Awe Dweller’ because it can help us to think in Awe as we look at God’s amazing creation and what we can do as we also create an area for people to look at and feel Awe as we do.‘

‘Our garden project connects to the Community Builder thread as we intended the project to promote peace and encourage liveliness to those who may walk past or hang around the area. We bring colour to anyone who may be having a rough day and encourage self-reflection in nature.’