Sustainability
Education for sustainably develops the knowledge, skills, values and world view necessary for people to act in the ways that contribute to more sustainable patterns of living. It enables individuals and communities to reflect on ways of interpreting and engaging with the world.
Sustainability is one of the cross curriculum priorities of the Australian Curriculum and together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures and Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia are strongly embraced in our school.
Alternative Energy
At Holy Family, we recognize the need for renewable energy sources for sustainable development and self-sufficiency in the 21st century and beyond. We are currently exploring solar energy as a starting point for our community.
Solar power
We have been lucky enough to secure a grant for some solar panels and monitoring system. When installed, we will be able to monitor how much electricity we are generating with a view to continually build on this into the future.
Recycling
In 2012, we conducted an internal audit of refuse produced each day in the school. This audit was conducted to inform our selves of the trend in waste production. It showed that there were high levels of neaten food, plastic wrapping and bags and food packaging.
Composting and worm farms
In response, we have further developed initiatives such as food scrap composting and worm farms that are managed by the students.
Recycling
Our school also recycles paper and cardboard and is involved in a community newspaper recycling program. In consultation with the students we have also developed a bottle and container recycling system.
Water Conservation
We understand that we use more water than is sustainable. At Holy Family we have many rainwater tanks that are used for irrigating our gardens. We also have access to recycled water through the Salisbury council. This is used to water our oval and to flush toilets in our bathrooms.
Wetlands
To better understand the nature of wetlands and the way in which they create an healthy ecosystem., we are about to construct our own wetland in the school grounds. The wetland will be adjacent to an environmental science centre with observation decks where students can collect water samples and learn about associated flora and fauna.’