Student sample for assessment
Written by a Year 6 student in Coburg, Victoria, Australia.
We propose the establishment of a month-long Sustainability Project that engages all year levels in learning about, and implementing, sustainable practices at our school. Project Overview Students will work in mixed-year-level teams to identify an area of the school community that could become more sustainable. Possibilities include reducing food waste in the canteen, creating a native plant garden, establishing a recycling program, or improving water conservation. Each team will research their chosen area, design a practical solution, and present their plan to the school leadership. Why This Matters The Sustainability Project achieves three key goals. First, it teaches students real-world problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom. Second, it builds collaboration across year levels, strengthening school community. Third, it creates lasting change: solutions implemented by students can continue long after the project ends. Practical Steps 1. Select one staff member as Sustainability Project coordinator 2. Form mixed-year teams (approximately 6 students per team) in Week 1 3. Allocate one period per week for four weeks to research and planning 4. Schedule team presentations to the leadership team in Week 5 5. Vote on which solutions will be implemented, beginning the following term Resources Required The project requires minimal resources: access to research materials (internet), printing costs for presentation materials, and time for planning sessions. The school already has most necessary supplies. The coordinator's role could be managed within existing staffing allocation. Conclusion The Sustainability Project transforms the school community by giving students real agency in creating positive change. It costs little to implement yet produces lasting benefits. We believe this project deserves your support.