Teaching and role modeling sustainability is a strong focus for Epsom P.S. Parents have given feedback to advise it is a factor when choosing schools in our region. We are proud of the progress we have made, but have so much more teaching and learning to do in the future. There is only one planet and we want to cherish and look after it for future generations.
Two of our most recent achievements was installing solar panels onto our large roof and being named as finalists in the Sustainability Victoria Schools Awards for 'Curriculum Leaders'.
We are a ResourceSmart School (RSS). ResourceSmart Schools is an award-winning Victorian Government program that assists us to embed sustainability in everything we do.
The RSS program provides practical support to help us reduce resource use, make cost savings, integrate sustainability into the curriculum and share learnings beyond the school gate. There are five levels of achievement (stars) with many actions to achieve before a star will be signed off by the Sustainability Minister.
We are currently a very, very proud 3 star school and we are working towards our 4th star focussed on Biodiversity.
GREEN MAGPIES
Our main 'vehicle' to drive change and educate everyone (including adults) at Epsom P.S. is through our green team - the Green Magpies. Student voice is very strong acrss this action team. We are a passionate group of 35 students across Grades 3-6 and three staff: Mrs Erin Salm, Miss Sarah Chamings and Mrs Gill Davey.
Our massive, recent news was being shortlisted as a finalist in the Sustainability Victoria School Awards under 'Green Team of the Year'. We are off to the MCG to attend the awards. Fingers crossed and stay tuned!
Over the next few editions we will tell you more about the projects we are working on.
How can families help at home?
We have joined the Wonder Recycling Rewards Program. We are asking all families to send in their empty bread and bread roll bags to school. When we have 25kg.....yes 25kg we can trade them in for sporting equipment. House points are on offer!
