Brand new greenhouse plants knowledge for Bayview Secondary College students

Bank of us has enabled the development of a greenhouse at Bayview Secondary College, through its Bank of useful ideas community initiative.

Bayview Secondary College teacher, Patrick Cooley said the greenhouse has provided a new approach to teaching and learning at the school.

“The greenhouse allows students to explore alternative options to traditional agriculture,” said Mr Cooley.

“They are developing work-ready skills in the areas of agriculture and horticulture, as well as aquaculture and aquaponics.”

Mr Cooley said without the Bank of useful ideas funding, the project would not have been possible.

“The funding has enabled students in Grade 9 and 10 to undertake core studies such as English, Maths, Science through the lens of real industries,” said Mr Cooley.

“Until now, the funding has been used to purchase, build and fit-out the greenhouse, as well as further developing the aquaculture facilities in an adjacent shed.”

“Now is an exciting time because the first greenhouse seedlings are ready.”

Bank of us Retail Sales and Support Manager Tracey Caulfield that the bank was delighted to be able to support the project.

“We developed the Bank of useful ideas to help Tasmanians bring their ideas to life, and this project is an example of the Bank of useful ideas in action.”

“It is great to see that it’s already benefiting the students involved but what’s even greater is, it will also benefit the entire school and the wider community when seedlings are harvested and ready for market,” Ms Caulfield said.

Due to the success of the project the school is now planning to expand the operation and footprint.