The Eastern Long Necked Turtle (not a tortoise as we first thought!) was adopted by the students this year. This opportunity for learning was quickly seized and the students set about discovering what would be needed to provide adequate care for this animal. From designing the enclosure, to digging the hole for the pond, to holding a naming competition to raise money to buy water maintenance equipment and food; the children led and participated in all aspects of the experience.



Through this, the children had a direct learning opportunity in which to engage in a relationship with nature, furthering their active role in caring for it.

The care for ‘Big Shell’ has proved to be an ongoing source of learning and wonderment. The children have since engaged in more fundraising opportunities which also benefited Cystic Fibrosis research for the wider community. They have also developed a smaller worm farm to generate the growth of more worms to feed the turtle.