A FOOD revolution that has grown from the ground up has changed the way children approach and think about food.
Such is the case at Kentucky Public School where their very own kitchen garden has officially launched amid much pomp and ceremony.
Before a crowd of students, parents, and community members, school principal Danny Spillane said the overall garden concept was a fantastic journey.
“The project was appropriate for the school curriculum, which provided valuable living skills for later in life,” he said.
The school’s marimba ensemble, conducted by Danny Spillane, delighted the assembled audience with specially arranged items.
Kitchen Garden co-ordinator Katrina Roads thanked the many people responsible for their contribution to the project.
Federal Member for New England, Tony Windsor said a strong sense of community had provided the garden.
“Children needed an appreciation of where food comes from,” he said.
Since 2001, the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation has grown and is established throughout Australia in some 295 schools, where around 35,000 children have enthusiastically dirtied their hands and learned how to grow, harvest, prepare and share fresh, seasonal food.
The fundamental philosophy that underpins the Garden Program sets good examples and engages children’s curiosity, as well as their energy and their tastebuds.
The program provides positive and memorable food experiences that form the basis of positive life-long eating habits.
The revolution rumbled into action in 2001, when renowned cook and food writer Stephanie Alexander OAM, joined forces with an inner-Melbourne school community to establish the Kitchen Garden Program at Collingwood College.
Stephanie’s pioneering approach flourishes in many schools, through the support of national and state government funding.
More information may be found at http://www.kitchengardenfoundation.org.au/
