HSIE Faculty News
Year 7 Students Explore Sustainability in Action
Last week, our Year 7 students had the fantastic opportunity to visit the Sustainability Hub in Muswellbrook – an initiative of Muswellbrook Shire Council designed to educate and inspire the community to live more sustainably.
The day was packed with hands-on learning and real-world examples of sustainable living. Students explored the community garden, where local groups and volunteers grow fresh produce that is donated to the Red Door Kitchen to help people in need. They also got their hands dirty learning about worm farms, compost systems, and hydroponics, and even helped feed the chooks!
Another highlight was the Indigenous herbal medicine garden, which gave students insight into traditional uses of native plants and the importance of preserving this knowledge. Throughout the visit, students were encouraged to reflect on how small changes in their everyday lives can make a big difference to our planet’s future.
The visit also included time at the Muswellbrook Animal Shelter, where students learned how to properly care for pets and what actions to take if they find an animal in need. Understanding responsible pet ownership was linked to the broader theme of sustainability, showing how caring for all living things contributes to a more compassionate and sustainable world.
This excursion tied directly into Year 7’s current Geography unit on Place and Liveability, giving students the chance to connect classroom learning with real-life community action. It was a valuable and inspiring day that gave our students plenty to think about — and act on — as they become the next generation of environmentally aware citizens.
We would like to thank Mick and his team at the hub for volunteering their time and services to us. I would also like to thank Derm, Mr. O’Toole, Mrs Rensburg, Mrs Holden and Mrs Matheson for making these trips possible and transporting all the students there and back safely over the three days.
Wendy Thomas
Leader of Learning - HSIE
