Kids refuse to go with the flow

IN THE midst of Victoria’s worst drought, Tooradin Primary School is doing its best to save every drop of water.
The Bayview Road school recently gained full accreditation in South East Water’s, Water – Learn it, Live it, water education and conservation program.
To mark its accreditation, a sign will be placed at the school’s entrance to inform the community of its commitment to a sustainable water future.
The program is part of the State Government’s Our Water Our Future behaviour change campaign to educate Victorians on the importance of saving water.
Over the past year, Tooradin Primary School has been working with South East Water to integrate water conservation into its curriculum and reduce water use throughout its grounds.
The school was recently awarded first prize in South East Water’s Schools Showerhead Exchange Program, having exchanged showerheads for more than 20 per cent of the school’s population.
Principal Marj Scarce said the school has committed to integrating water conservation activities into its curriculum.
“Activities such as the showerhead exchange that we held throughout National Water Week enabled students, teachers and parents to spread the water conservation message throughout the local community.”
“As a result of our water efficiency audit we have installed a rainwater tank in the school’s front garden. It collects water off the roof of the school which is then used for toilet flushing.”
To meet accreditation for Water – Learn it, Live it, the school’s achieved a series of milestones including professional development sessions for teachers.
South East Water acting chief executive officer Kate Vinot said the program helps to raise awareness about current and future water issues, while also encouraging students to reduce consumption at home and school.
“The kit gives teachers the resources they need to develop fun and interesting ways to teach students about saving water.
“We encourage all schools in our service area to register for the program and become accredited.
“Tooradin Primary School is a great example of a school that is committed to a sustainable water future.”