Community Engagement
Our Lady of Fatima is a community where the teachings of Jesus Christ are reflected and practised, where all children are empowered to develop to their full potential.
This week, I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate our school community and Mrs Amanda Heggen for our recent nomination as finalists for the Sustainability Victoria’s ResourceSmart Schools program. It is through Amanda Heggen’s dedication and passion that we were finalists in this international award-winning program that provides practical support for schools to make cost savings, integrate sustainability into the curriculum and share learnings beyond the school gate. It empowers school communities to reduce their emissions by minimising waste, improving energy and water efficiency and promoting biodiversity to benefit their school and community.
Our Lady of Fatima was a finalist under the category of Community Leadership School of the Year. This category recognises schools that best demonstrate a commitment to community leadership through the encouragement of innovative sustainability practices and action on climate change. Here is an excerpt from the ResourceSmart Schools Awards – 2022 Winners and Finalists website:
Mrs Heggen used Remote Learning as an opportunity to connect with nature.
The 2020–21 visual arts program encouraged students to use the school’s coastal location as a source of materials and inspiration. Parents joined their children in the adventure and have expressed gratitude for the opportunity. The school shared their experience with the community and local environmental networks TENS and BAMP, outlining how sustainability can be addressed through the lens of arts while fostering love for nature.
Mrs Amanda Heggen was also a finalist for Teacher of the Year - Reigniting sustainability in the school. This category recognises teachers who best demonstrate leadership in sustainability. This is an excerpt from the ResourceSmart Schools Awards – 2022 Winners and Finalists website:
Charismatic and motivated, this sustainability leader was responsible for re-engaging the school in the ResourceSmart Schools program and for fostering love and respect for the school’s coastal surroundings among the community.
Fleur Koole
Community Engagement leader