Native trees for Reporoa
‘‘Thirty-five schools have benefited from Treemendous Makeovers since the program's inception.’’
Reporoa School is one of five schools that will receive $10,000 in 2017 to create an outdoor education space thanks to the Treemendous makeover programme.
The programme is a joint venture between Project Crimson Trust and the Mazda Foundation, and will see schools receive an environmentallyfocused outdoor education area for students to explore.
Reporoa School plans to convert an unused paddock into a series of pathways that work their way through native plantings and an outdoor learning platform.
The renovation will be carried out by the Treemendous team, with help from the schools, local Mazda dealership staff, Mazda Foundation Trustees and Project Crimson.
Richelle McDonald from Reporoa School said that in the future, the school plans to develop the area into an orchard and kai gardens.
‘‘We are a country school with a roll of less than 120 students but that will not stop us from achieving great things,’’ she said.
Joris de Bres, Project Crimson Trust Chair, said it was encouraging to see schools around the country embracing the importance of conservation and outdoor education.
‘‘All of the entries we received this year really showcased the creativity and enthusiasm for the environment in schools around the country.
‘‘Thirty-five schools have benefited from Treemendous Makeovers since the program’s inception almost ten years ago and we’re excited to see what the next round of entries in 2017 bring.’’
Mazda Foundation chairman Andrew Clearwater said that 2017 marks the 10th anniversary the Treemendous makeover programme.
‘‘Each year we marvel at the aspirations of both students and teachers from around the country as they envisage new and creative ways to enhance their outdoor learning environments. There’s something quite heart-warming in seeing our next generation with such appreciation and enthusiasm for the environment,’’ Clearwater said.
All Primary and Intermediate Schools can apply for a Treemendous School Makeover. Finalists receive $500 for their school and the winning schools receive a $10,000 Treemendous School Makeover. Entries open again in term one.