SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION IN ACTION

The primary goal of the Marshmead program is to have students explore the concept of ‘personal footprint’ including what one’s footprint encompasses and how it delivers consequences to others and the environment. The program encompasses what is studied, lived and experienced by each student. The prime criterion for including each aspect of the curriculum is its relevance to the physical or social environment of Marshmead.

The program consists of a variety of integrated units of learning, most of which run for either a whole or half day to allow time for the completion of extended activities. Laptop computers are used by students in some classes. Each evening either community activities are programmed or students complete work on their ‘independent learning project’, write letters or read. The scheduled activities include assemblies, chapel services, social evenings, cluster evenings and menu planning. Each of the learning areas identified in the Middle School are represented in the Marshmead curriculum. However, the curriculum extends beyond those learning areas to also encompass pastoral care and a variety of educational experiences in the outdoors.

A Low Energy Lifestyle

Marshmead is not connected to an electricity grid and therefore is responsible for its own power supply, and the design of all buildings is based on energy efficient principles. This makes Marshmead an excellent educational resource when studying renewable energy. Students continually monitor their use of power and water and examine ways in which to reduce their consumption of these important resources.

Community Living

While some find it hard to leave the immediate comfort and support of parents and home, there is often a new appreciation of family life when living at the Marshmead campus. The family support group often becomes the student members of the Home Group and Home Group teacher. Students are encouraged to adopt a responsible attitude towards taking care of themselves so that they are not a burden upon others.

Student Welfare

Each House forms a Home Group, which is the primary pastoral care unit at Marshmead, establishing a source of support for students. The Home Group Program attempts to help students develop and practise taking care of oneself, taking responsibility for one’s own actions, conflict resolution skills, independent living skills and time management skills.

Outdoor Program

There are a number of components to the Outdoor Program at Marshmead, including expeditions, outdoor activities and recreation. Students are introduced to a variety of outdoor skills and activities that extend on the concepts introduced at MLC Banksia through the Junior School and Junior Secondary School programs. These include navigation, canoeing, sea kayaking and solo experiences.

Expeditions provide an extension to self contained ‘journeying’ where students visit a range of unique environments surrounding the property. The expedition program aims to teach students skills, attitudes and values pertaining to the natural environment.

Reintegration Program

When students return from Marshmead they complete a three day ‘reintegration program’ at Kew. This program is structured to assist both students and families to reintegrate back into school and home life. At the conclusion of this program, parents are invited to a Marshmead Celebration Evening which showcases the work of students throughout their time at Marshmead.

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