Scotch College

Junior School vegetable patch: A microcosm of sustainability

For several years now the Scotch community has been engaged in developing a sustainability program for the whole School. The motto ‘Reduce, Recycle and Reuse ‘ has become a popular anthem as we endeavour to accomplish this process. To this end a vegetable garden was proposed by a group of JS teachers early in 2008.

After much consultation between ground staff, members of the boarding house community, members of the executive and the JSPA, an allotment was assigned within the boarding precinct. Mick Smith and the ground staff quickly established the ‘patch’, and by early August we began to plant a variety of vegetables.

Since that time some sixty or more JS students have enjoyed the planting, watering and weeding of this area, eagerly observing the maturing of the beetroots, carrots, snow peas and cabbages, which once picked quickly found their way to students’ homes. The use of ‘worm juice’ fresh from the worm farm in Year 1C continues to enrich the soil. Junior School vegetable scraps, which have been collected and composted, also provide valuable soil nutrients. New crops of tomatoes and maize are about to be planted.

What a delight to see the eagerness of the boys as they embrace this project. Their sense of farming community, the joy of sharing their endeavours and their excitement of eating fresh vegetables, should ensure that this project will continue for many years to come. GS