Slaintecare Healthy Communities Grow at School programme takes root
15/04/2024
Cork City Hall hosted 45 inspiring and eager students from various primary schools across the Slaintecare Healthy Communities to launch their schools' participation in the renowned, RTE Grow It Yourself (GIY) programme. This initiative marks a significant step forward in educating our youth about the intricacies of the food system, from farm to fork.
The students, accompanied by their teachers and parents, gathered at the historic City Hall to embark on a journey of discovery and sustainability.
"We are thrilled to be part of the Grow at School. Having the support of the Slaintecare Healthy Communities Program means that we can work in partnership to enable children and families in our community to experience the rewarding and healthy practice of growing fruit and vegetables. ," said Conn Donovan, Teacher, North Presentation Primary School.
The Grow It Yourself programme offers a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the world of gardening and agriculture, teaching them valuable lessons about where our food comes from and the importance of sustainable practices. Through hands-on activities and interactive sessions, students will learn how to cultivate their own vegetables, gaining a deeper understanding of the entire food production process.
"We are thrilled to welcome these enthusiastic young minds to City Hall as they embark on this exciting journey of learning and growth," said Tanya O’Sullivan, Slaintecare Healthy Communities Development Officer. "By participating in the Grow It Yourself programme, these students are not only gaining practical skills but also developing a deeper appreciation for the food we eat and the impact it has on our environment. This programme is a support to help address social determinants of health and improve long terms outcomes for citizens."
The launch event featured 4 of the 8 schools taking part in Grow at School, led by their teachers who are being supported by experts from GIY. The programme will see students get their hands dirty planting seeds, learning about composting, and exploring the interconnectedness of food and the environment. Additionally, there will be opportunities for students to interact with their local community gardens where the children can continue their growing journey our food takes from the fields to our plates. The launch also included the announcement of pin design competition for the participation schools.
"We believe that education is key to creating a more sustainable future," said Mick Kelly, Found and CEO at GIY. "By empowering young people with the knowledge and skills to grow their own food, we are not only promoting healthier eating habits but also fostering a greater sense of connection to the natural world."
The launch event at City Hall marks the beginning of an exciting journey for these students as they become ambassadors for sustainability within their schools and communities. Through their participation in the Grow It Yourself programme, they are not only learning valuable life skills but also taking an active role in shaping a more sustainable future for generations to come.
If parents are interested in changing their eating habits they can look to join the Healthy Food Made Easy programme, provided by the HSE and community partners. Details can be found on the website at the following address Slaintecare Healthy Communities - Wellbeing Network (thewellbeingnetwork.ie).
Further Information on Slaintecare Healthy Communities: Click here: https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/0e613-slaintecare-healthy-communities/#-
Participating Schools:
- North Presentation Primary School
- St. Vincent's Convent Primary School
- S N Padraig Naofa C (St Patrick’s Girls)
- Sn Padraig Naofa (St Patrick’s Infts)
- Scoil Iosagain
- Scoil Padre Pio NS
- Scoil Colmcille (Blarney Street)
- St Brendan’s Girls National School
About Grow it Yourself:
GIY empowers individuals globally to lead healthier and more sustainable lives by growing some of their own food. Our goal is to foster a global community of food growers to contribute to a sustainable food system. Operating as a non-profit social enterprise in Ireland, UK, and USA from Waterford, we have a global presence through partnerships, media, and advocacy.
GROW at School is a food education programme that aims to enhance food literacy in primary schools. Through garden-based learning and hands-on growing experiences, we assist students in developing a deeper understanding of the origins of healthy, sustainable food, a concept we term as ‘food empathy’.