Sustainability

The Sustainability cross-curriculum priority explores the knowledge, skills, values and world views necessary for people to act in ways that contribute to a sustainable future. Designing solutions and actions for a sustainable future requires an understanding of the ways environmental, social and economic systems interact, and an ability to make balanced judgements based on present and future impacts. 

The Sustainability cross-curriculum priority is futures-oriented and encourages students to reflect on how they interpret and engage with the world. It is designed to raise student awareness about informed action to create a more environmentally and socially just world. 

The Sustainability cross-curriculum priority is based on 4 sets of organising ideas.  

Systems 

The interdependence of Earth’s systems (geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere) that support all life on Earth, and social and economic systems.  

World views

The role of world views (sets of attitudes, values and beliefs) that shape individual and community ideas about how the world works and our role in the world. 

Design 

The role of innovation and creativity in sustainably designed solutions, including products, environments and services, that aim to reduce present and future impacts or to restore the health or diversity of environmental, social and economic systems. 

Futures 

Ways of thinking and acting that seek to empower young people to design action that will lead to an equitable, sustainable and inclusive future. 

A leading part in Sustainability at St Michael’s is Miss Jordan’s Garden. Students are given the opportunity to engage in learning about the plant cycle, controlled temperatures, light, humidity and soil moisture. The garden provides all classes an opportunity to grow, monitor and record finding about plants. It helps students understand how fruits and vegetables grow from being seeds.