A little better every day: ‘The garden was quite a healing process’

In the quiet town of Amberley, nestled within the wider Aotearoa region, a unique initiative has taken root—literally. As the Matariki season approaches, marking the beginning of the Māori New Year, the local community is preparing for traditional celebrations centered around food, reflection, and renewal. At the heart of these preparations lies Amberley School, where students are engaging in both cultural education and practical gardening efforts. This initiative, supported by a Woolworths Growing for Good grant, aims to cultivate not just plants but also a deeper connection between the youth and their environment, guided by the memory of a cherished educator.

The project began with the acquisition of a tunnel house, which allows the students to grow seedlings and vegetables throughout the winter months. Deputy Principal Michelle Rigby and teacher Juliet van den Heuvel have been leading the "enviro team," a group of students dedicated to this endeavor. Their mission extends beyond mere cultivation; it involves teaching the significance of Matariki's stars, particularly Tupuānuku, the guardian star linked to earth-grown foods. Through this educational approach, students are learning about their heritage while participating in hands-on activities that promote sustainability and community engagement.

The journey of the enviro team has been deeply personal for many involved. Teacher Juliet van den Heuvel expressed her desire to continue the work initiated by the late Sharon Heeman, who founded the team. Her passing left a significant void, yet the continuation of her vision has become a source of healing for the students. Van den Heuvel shared that the act of nurturing the garden has served as a therapeutic process, helping the students cope with the loss of their beloved teacher. The garden, therefore, symbolizes more than just a place for growing food—it represents a tribute to Heeman's legacy and a living testament to resilience and remembrance.

As part of the Woolworths Growing for Good program, Amberley School joins seven other institutions in receiving support for similar environmental projects. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to fostering sustainable practices among young people, encouraging them to take active roles in their communities. The tunnel house at Amberley School is not merely a structure; it embodies hope and continuity, offering a space where students can engage with nature and each other in meaningful ways.

The impact of such initiatives reaches beyond the immediate benefits of food production. By connecting students with the land and its traditions, the program instills a sense of responsibility towards the environment and a respect for cultural heritage. Each lesson learned about the stars of Matariki and the importance of growing food ties into larger themes of identity, stewardship, and intergenerational knowledge sharing. These elements collectively contribute to a holistic educational experience that transcends conventional classroom settings.

Looking ahead, the success of the enviro team at Amberley School could inspire similar programs elsewhere. With continued support and community involvement, such initiatives might expand, creating networks of environmentally conscious individuals committed to preserving both natural resources and cultural values. The ongoing efforts at Amberley School serve as a reminder that even in small communities, impactful change can occur through dedication, collaboration, and a shared vision rooted in tradition and innovation.