Year 6 Farm Day
On Monday 1 December, our Grade 6 students spent a memorable day at Staughton Vale, immersing themselves in the natural environment of our rural campus. Over the course of the day, students took part in four hands-on, outdoor activities that celebrated both teamwork and nature.
First, they helped plant sunflowers, a wonderful opportunity to contribute to the campus gardens and learn about the growth cycle of plants. Next, they picked fresh strawberries, enjoying the fruits of the orchard and connecting with food-growing in a real farm environment. Our students then made lemonade, blending fun with practical learning and bringing the harvest to life in a refreshing treat.
Finally, they went on a guided walk around the campus, but this wasn’t just a stroll. Their walk took them past the campus’s aquaponics system and aquarium, where fish are raised and water-based ecosystems maintained. They also visited the farm’s dams and natural waterways, seeing first-hand the many waterways, ponds and natural features of the property. This gave students a real sense of how water, land and living systems connect at Staughton Vale.
The day was not only a chance for the students to get their hands dirty and enjoy nature, but also to build a deeper appreciation for sustainable food-growing, environmental systems and the natural landscape. It was a joyous and educational experience, one that captured the spirit of what Staughton Vale offers: connection, community and a love of the land.
Well done to all the Grade 6s for their enthusiasm, curiosity and teamwork. As well as many thanks to the staff for organising such a special day!
As we reflected on the day, many students remarked on how the visit changed their view of food and nature, from seeing lunch as something that comes from the supermarket, to recognising that fruit, vegetables and even fresh water require care, patience and respect for the environment. The time spent planting, harvesting and exploring farms and waterways helped them feel proud to be part of caring for the land, and inspired a deeper interest in how we grow our food and look after nature.
Lorelei W – 6B
David Gorton – Head of Campus (Staughton Vale)
Staughton Vale Campus introduce Silver Perch to its Native species Aquaponics
Our aquaponics facility in the Hayshed has taken an exciting step forward with the introduction of silver perch to the system. These hardy Australian native fish are an ideal species for aquaponics, helping to create a balanced, sustainable cycle that supports healthy plant growth. Students will now be able to observe and learn from a fully functioning aquaponics ecosystem, gaining hands-on experience in water quality testing, system maintenance and sustainable food production.
This addition marks another positive development in our expanding horticulture and environmental studies programs, further enriching learning opportunities across the Staughton Vale Campus.
David Gorton – Head of Campus (Staughton Vale)
Pop-Up Farm Stall a Hit at Maddingley
Maddingley students and staff were treated to a fresh and colourful display of home-grown produce this week, thanks to the Pop-Up Farm Stand proudly hosted on campus. The stand featured an impressive range of vegetables and seedlings harvested by our Maddingley Year 5 students during their recent Farm Day at Staughton Vale.
Students worked together to gather crisp lettuces, cauliflower, vibrant spring onions, sweet strawberries, and a selection of healthy vegetable seedlings. Their enthusiasm and care for the harvest were evident, with many commenting on how rewarding it was to see the results of their efforts.
The Pop-Up Farm Stall not only showcased the high-quality produce grown through our horticultural programs, but also highlighted the hands-on learning opportunities available to students. Thank you to the Year 5 cohort and staff for bringing a touch of the farm to Maddingley and celebrating the value of sustainable, locally grown food. The funds raised were donated to the Neighbour’s Place in Bacchus Marsh, complementing the SRC’s Food Train initiative this Christmas.
David Gorton – Head of Campus (Staughton Vale)
