Healthy Cities, Healthy Schools Program – Avenues Early Learning Centre
Practices improved:
Healthy Cities, Healthy Schools – Avenues Early Learning Centre
Discovering Nature in Everyday Spaces
The young children thoroughly enjoyed noticing the insects and talking about the plants in the garden. Their enthusiasm for learning about nature was evident from the start. They observed birds visiting the centre garden and even commented on the sounds of the road nearby, showing how attuned they were to their surroundings.
Children were able to recognise the many varieties of plants and flowers that the centre has in its garden thanks to the amazing work done by the team, who have a strong focus on sustainability. This existing foundation allowed the program to build on their knowledge and curiosity, helping students understand the importance of caring for the environment.
Learning Through Play
The students also participated in the sustainability games activity with great enthusiasm. The relay activity was a clear favourite, with all of the young students wanting to participate at once! These games were not only fun but also reinforced key lessons about teamwork, responsibility, and environmental care.
The children at Avenues expressed excitement in caring for the new plants that would be arriving at the centre. They take pride in keeping them healthy by watering them and ensuring the garden stays clean. They not only feel a connection to nature through exploring the existing gardens but are also thrilled to plant two new types of native plants.
Their sense of responsibility extends beyond the garden. The children were eager to keep the wider environment clean by collecting litter and recycling. This connection to nature was further displayed during their art sessions, where students drew pictures of trees and the centre garden. They even discussed ways to protect plants, such as reminding younger children not to pull them out of the ground.
Centre Sustainability
Avenues Early Learning Centre at Paddington joined the program to further their sustainability education, but the centre was already making great strides in this area. In fact, they were nominated for a Brisbane City Council WasteSMART Award in 2025 for their sustainability actions – a testament to their commitment to reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.
Competition bringing out the best!
The centre noted that the children are often excited by friendly competition during their day, and the sustainability games day activities were no different. The young children loved competing in the games (sometimes all wanting to participate in activities like a relay all at once!). They also enjoyed the collecting litter activity, learning all about keeping their environment clean. Their enthusiasm spread throughout the centre and at home with the children sharing their learnings with their families too!
Planting Fun!
At the end of the program, the centre celebrated receiving their planting pack and program certificate. This was a proud moment for the team and the children, marking their achievements and reinforcing the importance of sustainability in everyday life.
Join the Healthy Cities, Healthy Schools Program
Want to be a part of the Healthy Cities, Healthy Schools program in 2026?
You can register your interest here.
