Monbulk Primary School has transformed part of its grounds into a peaceful sensory garden, providing students with a tranquil space to unwind and connect with nature, the transformation was made possible by a $10,000 community grant from Yarra Valley Water.
Principal Estelle Alder said the new garden, located in a previously underused section of the school grounds, has already proven to be a valuable addition for students in need of a quiet retreat.
“The new garden is fantastic, and we’re so grateful for the grant that has enabled us to create it,” Ms Alder said.
“It’s a wonderful space for our students to have where they can unwind and connect with nature.”
The idea for the sensory garden was born out of the school’s desire to create a space where students, particularly those with sensory needs, could take a break from the bustling energy of school life.
Ms Alder said the need for such a space was clear.
“There was a need to revitalise the garden at the front of the school, and we knew we needed a space for students with sensory needs to spend time. When the grant from Yarra Valley Water came along, we saw it as a great opportunity to make this wish a reality,” she said.
The garden’s design was guided by the school’s sustainability leaders and a talented parent volunteer, Tim, who brought extensive landscape design experience to the project.
Together with Yarra Valley Water’s support, they developed a water-efficient garden featuring native plants that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
Once the landscaping was complete, students were actively involved in planting, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the new space.
“The students have really enjoyed being able to help create the space with planting and exploring the different areas of the garden,” Ms Alder said.
“Some children like walking through, others enjoy sitting in the quiet nooks and crannies.”
For many students, the sensory garden offers more than just a beautiful outdoor space, it provides a much-needed moment of calm in the often overwhelming school day.
“School can be a very overwhelming place for some students. There’s lots of noise, conversation, movement, and interactions. Sometimes we all need space and time to decompress, and get ready for what’s next,” Ms Alder said.
“Having a space like this gives all students this opportunity.”
Ms Alder said she hopes the garden will continue to be used for relaxation and creative exploration in the future.
“I would love to see it used as an outdoor classroom, a place for relaxation, exploration, discovery, and creativity,” she said.
Yarra Valley Water general manager of strategy and community Tiffany White expressed her delight in seeing the garden come to life.
“We’re very pleased we have been able to support Monbulk Primary School to achieve their vision and create a water-efficient sensory garden,” Ms White said.
“The garden is a beautiful addition to the school, and it’s great to see the value the students are getting from having that safe and peaceful space to relax in.”
Reflecting on the project’s success, Ms Alder also highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship.
“We are all responsible, in ways big and small, in caring for our world,” she said.
“Whether it’s helping plant and weed a small garden or reducing our impact through more sustainable practices, everyone can do something, and every action has an impact.”
