Year 6 Environmental Leaders Embark on Hands-On Native Garden & Permaculture Workshop
On Wednesday, 22 May, our Year 6 Environmental Leaders took part in an exciting and immersive learning experience focused on native gardens and permaculture design. This special session was organised and led by Mr Richard Baker, as part of the School’s ongoing commitment to environmental education.
The workshop was facilitated by renowned garden designer and horticulturist, Narelle Happ, who brought over two decades of experience and a passion for creating sustainable, productive and nurturing outdoor spaces. Narelle guided the students through the key principles of garden planning and ecological design.
During the session, students explored a variety of topics, including:
- Plant Selection: Understanding which native species thrive in local conditions and how to group them effectively to encourage biodiversity and resilience.
- Soil pH and Quality: Learning firsthand how to assess soil composition and pH levels, and their importance for plant health.
- Permaculture Design Principles: Discovering how to build gardens that are both sustainable and productive, with minimal ongoing input.
The learning took place in the cleared garden area near the Music Cottage, which is currently being prepared for a new garden installation, a perfect real-world setting for these young environmental stewards to apply their ideas.
This enriching experience was made possible through a native garden consultation awarded by Woollahra Council, supporting the planning of future habitat and bush foods gardens at Cranbrook. The consultation included:
- A site walk-over with native garden expert advice
- A mud-map sketch showing suggested planting patterns
- A list of native species tailored to the school’s site
Our Environmental Leaders left the workshop with a deeper appreciation of ecological gardening and are now well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the development of a vibrant, sustainable garden space at the Junior School.
Mr Richard Baker
Deputy Head Operations and Staffing P–6
