School and Council Link Up to Honour Environmentally Conscious Students

The future of Kaipara's environment is in good hands if the passion for all things green at Dargaville Intermediate School is anything to go by.

Students, along with staff, are making a real difference to our local environment in practical terms and the school has teamed up with Kaipara District Council to recognise this dedication with a new environmental award. The Kaipara District Council Environmental Award is a trophy which features a green glass koru mounted on a piece of kauri and was donated by Council late last year, when the school’s enthusiasm came to their attention. It will be given out for the first time at this year’s prize giving.

"The environmental focus is a school mentality, and the children here are really hooked on the idea. The new award will be a great way to officially reward someone for their effort and dedication,” says Deputy Principal Brendon Lucich.

“As a school we are trying to relate big issues like global warming to smaller, practical solutions which everyone can achieve. By acting locally and incorporating green ideas into our everyday lives, we can all make a difference." says Mr Lucich.

“Specialist subjects like Science and Environmental Studies are a big part of the picture, and help students discover how they can make a positive contribution. What they learn in the classroom is translated into practical terms with field trips and environmental action plans."

Students take part in a bi-annual 'Experiencing Marine Reserves' programme in which they visit and compare Goat Island marine reserve with Ripiro Beach and put together action plans to help solve any environmental problems they see.

“One of our students, Emily Powell, got a sign put up at Baylys Beach to remind people to take care of the sand dunes last year." says Mr Lucich "It is good to see the ideas being put into action.”

“Water testing at Omamari and Baylys Beach is another way for students to monitor the environment, and find ways to improve it. The children have also come up with some good ideas for around the school. One put in to action recently was to cover storm water drains at the school with wire mesh, to help prevent rubbish and other debris from entering water ways.”

Students also enter environmentally-focused projects in Science Fairs and their passion spills over into their everyday life.

"A lot of children have been able to put what they have learned to practical use and are having a positive influence on their parents and others in the community,” says Mr Lucich.

It is not just the students learning about the environment at Dargaville Intermediate, teachers have been linking up with the Department of Conservation and Northland Regional Council as a part of their own professional development.

“We must empower our students with the knowledge and skills needed to create an environmentally sustainable society, one where a progressive economy interacts positively with our environment.

The recipient of the Kaipara District Council Environmental Award will be the student whose actions reflect this goal.”