Sustainability

SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES AT THE KINDERGARTEN

Isabel Henderson Kindergarten is committed to educating children about sustainable practices through everyday experiences. 

• Children learn about sustainable practices in many aspects of the curriculum some of which include composting, worm farms, recycling, water conservation, use of natural materials and sustainable gardening
• IHK is a member of Environmental Education in Early Childhood (EEEC).  To find out more visit http://home.vicnet.net.au/~eeec/resources.php
• IHK monitors its use of energy, water, waste and impact on bio-diversity through the SETS software tool.  The results and actions are displayed in the foyer at kinder and are available in the “IHK Sustainable Journey” environment report.
• The cleaning company contracted by the kindergarten is certified as providing an environmentally preferable cleaning service by Good Environmental Choice Australia.  For more information visit www.rapidresponse.net.au
• Rainwater tanks with a capacity of 12,500 litres have been installed in our garden

FAMILIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT

• We have an environmental sub-committee made up of parents at the kindergarten and welcome parents to join every year
• Families are asked to provide waste free lunches. Please use washable, re-usable containers to hold lunch ingredients, including sandwiches and yoghurt, in preference to pre-packaged tubs and cling-wrap.
• Guest speakers and free events promoting sustainability with young families are regularly organised for families at kinder.  They are promoted through the Newsletter and email.

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL TO THE KINDERGARTEN

Families are encouraged to use non-car means to travel to and from the kindergarten.  The kindergarten is a short walk from two tram routes:

Stop 20,  St Georges Road Tram 112 OR Stop 19, Nicholson Street, Tram 96

Dedicated bike paths criss-cross the area, including the inner circle and capital city trail. Maps of local bike paths and public transport options are available from the kinder office. Bike racks are located at the entrance of the kindergarten to store children’s bikes and scooters.