Nestled amidst the Seaford Wetlands lies Downs Community Farm (DCF), a beacon of community, sustainable agriculture and learning. This picturesque setting, with support from the Nourish Network and Peninsula Health is currently hosting the ‘Downs Farm to School Pilot Project.’
At the heart of this initiative are the volunteers at DCF, local schools and key stakeholders such as Peninsula Health, Monash Health, Deakin University, The Community Plate, the Department of Education and the Local Learning and Employment Network.
Frankston based David Scott School took the plunge and have already established regular student visits for young people participating in School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) with support from Registered Training Organisation – Gr8. Their journey at Downs Community Farm is not just about growing nourishing food; it’s about being immersed in the world of sustainable agriculture, learning valuable skills, and making a tangible impact on the land.
“The contribution of the students from David Scott School has been amazing and they have made great progress at DCF already. The young people are seeking to understand the rationale behind farm practices. The students recently made tomato stakes using recycled materials, guided by their own designs and fuelled by class discussions, they have taken ownership of the project. The sense of teamwork and collaboration is evident, with each member contributing their skills and ideas to the collective effort,” says Brad Jones – On site trainer / supervisor at Gr8. It’s clear that these students are actively engaging with the work and eager to learn which speaks volumes about their dedication and enthusiasm.
And the wonderful volunteers at DCF remind us about the simple joys of planting and watching seeds grow. “These moments of connection with the land and the food it produces are invaluable, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the role we play in it,” says Robyn, President at DCF.
Through the collective efforts of DCF, local schools and the Nourish Network, students are not just learning about agriculture – they’re actively shaping a more sustainable and connected future for themselves and their communities. The Farm to School Pilot Project at Downs Community Farm is not only about growing nourishing food; it’s also about cultivating connections – between farms, canteens, classrooms, and communities.