General News
15 May, 2026
St Mary’s students grow garden vision
St Mary’s pupils are keen to roll up their sleeves and help shape their school for future generations. Inspired by Pope Francis’ letter, 'Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home,’ which calls for environmental responsibility, the students aim to transform part of the school into an outdoor garden.
The school’s Year 5/6 students and the school’s Laudato Si’ Warriors - students from other classes - joined forces for the Laudato Si’ project.
“We looked at ways to improve our school environment and our students’ wellbeing,” the students said.
“We have explored lots of different ideas, such as creating flower beds with each grade decorating one bed per class.
“We also looked at making a wellbeing space where students can go for some quiet time and
designing buddy chairs for students who need someone to play with.”
In term two, each classroom was given a scrap bin for pupils to use to build compost.
“We will also be getting our hands dirty when we start planting seeds and seedlings for the vegetable garden and fruit trees,” the students said.
“We are also going to begin to create worm farms.
“When the garden is up and running, we have plans to have a garden roster for each grade, building and decorating plant labels or signs and donating extra veggies to the community.
“We have really enjoyed having a voice and making decisions about what goes into the garden.”
To support the project, the school’s Parents Club is holding an auction to raise funds for the Laudato Si’ initiative.
“Creating a better garden and outdoor learning area has been a big topic of conversation within our school community over the past few years,” St Mary’s Parents Club president Kristy Gove said.
“We are excited to make 2026 The Year of the Garden.
“Our Parents Club is committed to directing all fundraising efforts towards creating a beautiful and engaging garden space.”
The online auction opens Monday, May 25 at 9am. Bidding closes June 1 at 8am.
Auction items include baked goods, fire pits, vouchers, labour, and experiences.
Visit www.galabid.com/stmarysschoolwbeal for more information.
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