Sustainability

Numala Mural

Talented local artist, Robert Jackson painted a beautiful Western Basaltic Plains mural across the three panels of the College's gymnasium in our indigneous grassland (known as Numala). This was funded by the CASS Foundation.

What are we doing at St Albans Secondary College?

St Albans Secondary College has displayed a proactive approach towards sustainability. In 2002, we were a pilot school with CERES for their Sustainable School Program which evolved into the Australian Sustainable Schools Initiative (AuSSi Victoria). The College Assistant Principal, Ms Gael Meadowcroft in collaboration with the Sustainability Committee implemented a long term strategic plan based on the four AuSSi Victoria modules of Energy, Water, Waste and Biodiversity & School Grounds.

The College’s sustainability achievements include:

Energy

The central heating system was replaced with individual heaters for each classroom that automatically switch off after a set period of time. External shade blinds on north facing classrooms and energy efficient fluorescent lights were mounted. Solar panels and shade structures were also erected.

Water

Two 20000 litres tanks were purchased from a City West Water grant and used to flush the Toilet Blocks and to nourish the vegetable garden. Another 30000 litre tank was installed beside the Year 9 Learning Centre. Water saving drinking taps and two synthetic sporting areas assist with minimising water wastage.

Waste

In 2007, St Albans Secondary College was a finalist in the Waste Category for ResourceSmart Awards. A high priority is placed on recycling all appropriate material and the McKenzie Mohr Model on community-based social marketing has been trialled to encourage students to collect litter– http://www.cbsm.com.

The Schools Environmental Tracking System (SETS) is used to monitor the College’s annual energy, water and paper usage.

Biodiversity & School Grounds

The College has an indigenous grassland and mural and collaborates closely with the Iramoo Sustainability Community Centre (local grassland). An extensive kitchen garden and greenhouse supply the school canteen and Food Technology department.

The employment of a Sustainability-Facilities Manager has been a major contributor for the implementation of sustainability initiatives at St Albans Secondary College.

Student Involvement

A Student Enviro Club and Gardening Club have supported the College’s sustainability initiatives and organised World Environment Day. The Year 9 Alpine students have been Junior Landcare ambassadors and Year 7 students participate in Clean Up Australia Day. Students participate in the Kids Teaching Kids environmental conferences and sustainability curricula have been developed.