Jackson KDC Farm

Bank First have produced this short video about the Jackson KDC Farm. Bank First also awarded us $2,000 last year.

Jackson School’s classroom on wheels

Teachers know that every student learns differently and not everyone is a ‘classroom kid’. That’s why, over the past three years, Helena McAloon has led a collaborative garden project between Jackson School and Keilor Downs College.

Complete with chickens, an orchard, fresh produce and now – through a Bank First Teaching Initiatives Program grant – an upcycled bus and bunny enclosure, Jackson Farm has been a way for kids to get their hands dirty and learn in new ways.

‘Not all kids thrive in a classroom environment. But you bring them here, and they love being outside and connecting to nature,’ said Helena, Leading Teacher (Senior School) at Jackson School.

The project began with Keilor Downs College offering Jackson School the use of a previously neglected area of their grounds. Today, the area has been transformed into a flourishing garden and farm, powered by students.

Each week, Jackson School and Keilor Downs College comes together to work on the farm, teaching students to work alongside others with different abilities, strengths and backgrounds to their own. ‘It’s one of the first collaborations between special and mainstream schools in this way,’ said Helena.

Indoor space on the farm was limited, which posed a challenge during winter months. That’s why Jackson Farm’s latest project was to renovate a 1970s bus into a colourful classroom and create a new enclosure for rabbits and guinea pigs. After receiving a Teaching Initiatives Program grant in 2025, Helena and her students set about bringing this idea to life.

‘We had the bus delivered from a junkyard and then we've been renovating it inside and out with colourful murals. The kids have done all the work in turning it into the beautiful bus it is today.’

Each stage of the project has given Jackson School and Keilor Downs College students the opportunity to learn new skills. ‘Some really enjoy doing hands-on work with the drills, some enjoy painting, and others enjoy hanging out with the animals.’

Since the project was completed, both schools have seen the impact in students. ‘It's just a great space that they can come and take a break during their busy day. Keilor Downs College have also incorporated the farm into their curriculum and sustainability club.’

‘It’s been a great collaboration. I love seeing the students in a whole different light – that’s my favourite part,’ said Helena.

Educators like Helena know better than anyone how much of an impact ‘the little bit extra’ can have on student’s learning. Through our Teaching Initiatives Program, we're proud to continue our legacy of making these ideas a reality.