The Tucker Bush Schools Program gives young Australians the opportunity to grow and learn about native edible species that thrive in our soils and climate, helping them develop ‘nature smarts’ from an early age alongside their peers, and fostering an interest and passion for their food and environment.
Through the program, we’ll set up interested, eligible primary and secondary schools with online fundraising facilities. Following a successful fundraising campaign, we’ll then provide them with an Aboriginal Cultural incursion, plan the garden and run an educational workshop. A starter pack of 20 native bushfood plants will be delivered to the school, and learning & teaching resources for staff and students.
How students benefit from a bushfood garden
- Developing “nature smarts” from an early age through first-hand experiences.
- Strengthening their understanding and awareness of food and biodiversity.
- Practising teamwork, communication and critical thinking skills in an interesting setting.
- Getting hands-on learning opportunities outside the sedentary classroom environment.
- Learning about plants, soil, water, pests and beneficial insects.
- Eating herbs and veggies they’ve grown themselves.
- Connection to country through an Aboriginal perspective as the plants are both medicines and a source of food for good health and well-being.
School gardens created through the Tucker Bush Schools Program will contribute to the NGIA 202020 Vision. Students experience hands-on learning about the natural environment and benefit from increased Aboriginal Cultural awareness—the impact of which may help shape them and their community for years to come.
There is also growing evidence that the quality of our relationship with nature impacts on our mental health. By allowing children to be in contact with nature in the outdoors, allows for long-life development and conservation values into the future.
Other benefits include healthier eating, incidental exercise, confidence building, improved STEM & analytical abilities, improved focus & memory, stress relief, and positive impacts on mood & psychological wellbeing.
Who are we?
The Tucker Bush Schools Program is a joint venture between Marissa Verma (Bindi Bindi Dreaming) and Mark Tucek (Tucker Bush). Marissa is a Noongar Aboriginal woman with traditional knowledge of native bushfoods and extensive experience in educating youth about Noongar culture. Mark has over 30 years' experience in the horticultural industry; he founded Tucker Bush to promote a cultural shift towards a sustainable ecosystem, a secure and diverse food supply, and happier, healthier humans.
Despite being a small team, Tucker Bush already has the support of Aboriginal Ambassadors, horticulture industry professionals, horticulture media and community media, along with Australia-wide wholesale and retail distribution, and an engaged following on social media.
