Garden to Table

Exciting News: Our Garden to Table Programme is Flourishing!

The Garden to Table programme is a wonderful addition to our school’s environmental education curriculum! Thanks to the generous funding provided by our PTA from their 2022 fundraising efforts, we were able to launch this incredible initiative.

What is Garden to Table?

Garden to Table’s mission is to empower every child in New Zealand with the knowledge and skills to make sustainable, healthy food choices. It’s a hands-on, curriculum-integrated programme that brings learning to life outside the classroom.

Our Journey

While we initially started in 2023, the floods at the beginning of the year caused a delay. We officially launched in 2024, and it has been a resounding success! Our Tūī and Kotare students are fortunate to participate in this programme, led by specially trained staff who guide them through planting, harvesting, and cooking sessions. Each session culminates in a delightful shared meal, fostering a sense of community and celebration.

Why Garden to Table?

• Hands-On Learning: Students experience the joy of learning by cultivating and maintaining our gardens. This approach makes science, math, and environmental studies engaging and memorable.
• Health and Nutrition: We’re nurturing healthy eating habits by teaching students to grow, harvest, and prepare fresh, nutritious food.
• Life Skills: The garden is a classroom for essential life skills like responsibility, teamwork, patience, and sustainability.
• Community Building: Our gardens provide a communal space for students, teachers, and families to connect and collaborate.
• Environmental Stewardship: We’re instilling a sense of responsibility for our planet by teaching sustainable practices.

A Perfect Fit

As an existing Enviro school, the Garden to Table programme perfectly complements our school’s culture. Students are learning to grow, harvest, prepare, and share, creating an enjoyable and unique learning environment.

Inside the Programme

• Our programme emphasizes practical learning through individual and group work, integrating all areas of the New Zealand curriculum.
• We have a vibrant and well-equipped kitchen where students learn to prepare and cook delicious meals under the guidance of a Kitchen Specialist Teacher.
• Students use seasonal vegetables and herbs harvested directly from our school garden, promoting sustainability and freshness.
• Families have shared that their children are inspired to start vegetable gardens at home and share their new cooking and gardening skills.

Get Involved!

The Garden to Table programme is also a fantastic opportunity for parents and caregivers to get involved in their child’s schooling. We encourage you to join us and experience the joy of gardening and cooking with our students.  Please contact Lizelle Groger or Katie Hills  to join us on Wednesday mornings 8.30-11.00 

We’re incredibly proud of the positive impact the Garden to Table programme is having on our students and our community. We look forward to seeing it continue to flourish!