This outstanding childcare centre has implemented so many wonderful environmentally sustainable practices that it’s impossible to list them all here. But here are a few of their great initiatives:
* installed water tanks and take steps to minimise use of water
* established a vegetable, bush tucker and herb garden
* take children on regular nature walks
* purchase products from fair trade
* use natural, chemical-free products, including cleaners
* provide natural materials for play
* recycle and purchase recycled products
* compost food
* avoid use of disposable plates, cups and cutlery
* collect and recycle fluorescent globes
* reduce the use of plastics
* minimise use of electricity
* participate in tree planting, bush care and clean-up activities.
Director of the preschool, Catherine Lee told us, ‘We are so honoured to receive the Highly Commended Environmental Sustainability Award. We have been established since 1956 as a very small not for profit , community-based preschool and this award belongs to all the children, families, teachers and educators, staff of The Point Preschool and wonderful community who continue to support us. Our children are our most precious gifts and we will continue to strive to make the world more beautiful for them.’
‘We believe a sense of wonder, belonging to and love of the natural environment, living things and animals is critical for young children to develop lifelong respectful, positive and proactive attitudes towards protecting our environment, caring for all living creatures and creating a sustainable environment,’ the Preschool says.
The preschool is clearly succeeding in its goal to encourage a love of the environment in the children who attend. This is what 5-year-old Delilah told us:
‘We are just trying to make the world beautiful for everyone. That’s caring for country and this is Dharawal Country. We care for each other too.’
Address: 89R Greenpoint Road, Oyster Bay NSW 2225;
https://thepointpreschool.com.au/
