Today we’re joined by Christine Mark from South Gippsland Specialist School, who has been
playing a key role in collaboration with our Leongatha Community Garden Partnership. As
part of our Work Experience Program at the community garden, Christine and her students
have been attending every Friday, engaging in a meaningful mix of career exploration,
mentoring sessions, and hands-on gardening work.
Workshops have featured team-building activities and guest speakers, including a session with TAFE Gippsland’s Skills and Jobs Centre. Workshops are aimed at helping students gain insights into different career pathways and the supports available to them.
The second part of the day sees students joining Lead Gardener Rogan in the garden,
learning practical skills and building confidence through real-world experience. With exciting
plans ahead, including transition information on independent living and support services, and the development of some new projects at the new community farm, we look forward to
seeing what next term brings.
Interview with Chris
What have been some of the key benefits you’ve observed for your students through
participating in the program?
“The gardening program has offered numerous benefits for our students. Many have shown
improvements in their fine motor skills through pruning and caring for plants. It has also provided a calming but sensory experience that has helped to reduce students’ stress and anxiety. Students have shown pride in their work, and seeing the results of their labour has encouraged their teamwork.”
The career exploration sessions have featured a range of guest speakers. How did
the students respond to these sessions?
“The students have responded with great enthusiasm and curiosity to the guest speakers. Meeting people from different gardening and other fields of work has sparked interest in our students and has helped students imagine possible career paths. They have enjoyed the hands-on interactive activities with the guest speakers. These experiences have been engaging and relatable, which has led to some great questions and some in-depth conversations. One particular student wanted to continue the conversation after the session had finished, as he was so engaged, and the presenter was happy to oblige.”
Why do you think programs like this are important for students?
“Programs like this are vital because they provide exposure to all different fields of work. They promote independence and life skills that a classroom may not. Gardening connects our students to nature, which is beneficial for mental health and well-being. It also opens doors to vocational opportunities, which helps prepare students for future employment.”
Has anything surprised you?
“One standout moment was when a student who typically struggles with communication and connections had a great in-depth conversation with a guest speaker. This student was so engaged in the conversation and asked many questions, and has now sparked a new interest in that career path. It was a breakthrough in both confidence and language skills.”
Looking ahead to next term, what are you most excited about?
“Next term, we are excited to see and hear more interactive sessions with guest speakers, and also working on a big project with the community gardening program. We are also planning some exciting excursions which will give the students more exposure to new environments, which will hopefully inspire and motivate them. Watching the students continue to grow both personally and in their gardening skills is what I am looking forward to in the term to come.”