BioEd25: Inspiring a New Generation of Environmental Stewards

Landcare NT is proud to announce the launch of the BioEd25 Environmental Science Program, a ground-breaking initiative aimed at fostering biodiversity and environmental sustainability in the Top End. This innovative program leverages a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) approach to bring local environmental scientists and primary schools together for an enriching educational experience.

Program Highlights:

Through collaborations with Territory Native Plants, Darwin Wildlife Sanctuary and the NT Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, the BioEd25 program offers:

• Inquiry-based learning experiences that inspire students to appreciate the importance of conservation, sustainability, climate awareness, and environmental justice.
• Interactive classroom activities and hands-on experiences with native plants and animals, guided by local science experts to foster curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.
• Education on the vital role of native flora and fauna in creating habitat, enhancing biodiversity, and addressing climate change.
• Opportunities for students to engage with local scientists, fostering STEM career pathways and strengthening community connections.

Program Details:

The in-school environmental science presentations are designed for students in Years 3-6 and will be presented to 10 primary schools in Darwin during Semester 1. This biodiversity education program aims to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards through three engaging modules: Native Flora, Native Fauna, Invasive Species and Native Habitat. Led by Top End scientists and experienced educators, this program empowers local communities to protect and preserve unique biodiversity.

Empowering Leaders, Driven by Collective Action:

The BioEd25 program focuses on:

• Exploring the unique characteristics of Top End habitats and the interconnectedness of native species.
• Conducting real-world scientific investigations and observations.
• Developing essential skills in environmental monitoring and conservation.
• Meeting some of the amazing animals that call the Top End home.
• Learning about the importance of conservation and coexisting with wildlife.

2024 Program Success:

Thanks to the generous support of City of Darwin, City of Palmerston, Litchfield Council and Power and Water, the 2024 BioEd Program was able to offer expert-led STEM-based environmental science sessions at no cost to 25 Primary Schools:

• 14 in Darwin
• 6 in Palmerston
• 5 in Litchfield

Teachers consistently emphasized the program's value in providing students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences that complement classroom studies. All 25 participating schools requested more sessions in the future.

Partnerships and Benefits:

As a bonus, Landcare NT partnered with One Tree Per Child and Arborgreen to provide one native plant per child to each participating school, resulting in numerous benefits:

• Post-session learning encouragement for students and teachers.
• Support for the Territory water plan through native planting for biodiversity and water efficiency.
• Expert site surveys providing advice on irrigation, soil types, and planting regimes.
• Increased biodiversity with termite-resistant shade trees, bird, bee, and butterfly-attracting plants, and low-maintenance, drought-resistant native shrubs.

Landcare NT is dedicated to empowering local communities to protect and preserve the unique biodiversity of the Top End through expert-led education and collaboration. Our mission is to create a sustainable and environmentally just future, driven by collective action and inspired by local expertise.

For more information about the BioEd25 Environmental Science Program and how you can support this initiative, please contact Donella Walker [email protected].