Case study

Healthy Cities, Healthy Schools Program – Lota State School

The students at Lota State School summed up their experience in one enthusiastic sentence: “I wish we could do this every day!” This was their response to participating in the Healthy Cities, Healthy Schools Program, and it speaks volumes about the impact the program had. Students loved learning about nature, a passion that aligns perfectly with the pride Lota takes in its incredible gardens. From growing strawberries and carrots to cultivating a variety of fruits and vegetables, the school’s campus is a thriving green space. It also features a dedicated native plants garden, all located in common areas where children spend their free time.

Practices improved:

Healthy Cities, Healthy Schools – Lota State School

A School That Loves Its Green Spaces

Students at Lota State School have a deep appreciation for their gardens, and this was evident during the Brisbane Sustainability Agency’s visit.

The students eagerly gave us a tour of the campus, pointing out their favourite plants, picking fruit straight from the trees, and proudly showing us their native beehive.

Their knowledge and respect for nature were impressive, and they were particularly excited about the new native plants chosen to enhance their garden.

Learning Integration

The Lota State School team integrated the program over six weeks, introducing one activity per week across the term. This approach worked beautifully, keeping students engaged and excited for each new challenge. Teachers noted that the program was “right up their alley,” serving as a natural extension of the sustainability work already happening at the school.

Among the activities, the art project was a clear favourite. Students created several group artworks using natural items found within the school grounds. While art is a regular part of their school day, this activity offered something different—it encouraged reflection and creativity rooted in their connection to nature.

Students also showed heartfelt dedication during the sustainability pledges activity, where they committed to actions like improving recycling, conducting rubbish pickups, and participating in tree planting and care. They were excited about reusing everyday items in future artwork, a skill they learned through the program.

Empowering Young Environmental Leaders

The program didn’t just teach students how to be sustainable, it also empowered them to take ownership of making a difference.

Teachers observed that students became more aware of their environmental impact and were eager to share what they had learned with others.

Many began brainstorming ways to continue their sustainability journey beyond the program, demonstrating a lasting commitment to positive change.

School Sustainability

Through the program, students deepened their connection to the school’s green spaces and developed a greater understanding of sustainability practices.

Teachers reported that students are now more mindful about waste, recycling, and landfill, and they feel a stronger sense of responsibility toward caring for the environment.