Outdoor Classroom Day started in the bush for students at Karridale Primary School as they launched their Indigenous Plant Trail on Thursday 1 November.
The whole school and guests met in the new ‘Bird’s Nest’ outdoor classroom to start the day and introduce the Indigenous Plaint Trail located in the bush area.
The community project involved the work of all the school’s students, staff and many local individuals and groups who helped to create the trail.
Extensive weed eradication, rubbish removal, bushfire management and planting for re-vegetation and rehabilitation kept the school community and volunteers busy in the weeks leading up to the opening of the trail.
Local Wadandi custodian Josh Whiteland shared his knowledge of indigenous plants surrounding the school, explaining to the group how plants have enriched the lives of Wadandi people since time began.
Year 5/6 students created information brochures to describe the eight indigenous plants that are found along the trail, and with Mr Whiteland’s permission, included information on the significance of the plants to the Wadandi people.
The school community and guests enjoyed walking the trail, listening to the Year 5/6 presenters and the many interesting facts about the plants.
The new outdoor ‘ Bird’s Nest’ classroom is located within the trail; the land art installation created by artist Elaine Clocherty and the Karridale Primary School students.
“The restoration of this beautiful bushland on our doorstep has been an ongoing project,” said Karridale Primary School principal Fiona Cormack.
“Over time, strong connections with people in the community have helped us to bring the vision to reality.”
Visitors are welcome to walk the trail, those wishing to do so can contact Karridale Primary School on 9758 5517.
