What we teach children today shapes tomorrow's food system. Discover how hands-on food education is growing resilient, healthy and connected communities.
Students from Queenstown Primary School, alongside their teacher Susan McIntyre, Nicky Gray from Enviroschools, Skye Macfarlane, Southern Regional Coordinator for Garden to Table, and Julia Blackford, share the impact the Garden to Table programme has had on the students and why food education is about far more than growing vegetables.
Through hands on experiences in the garden and kitchen, students learn where food comes from, how healthy ecosystems support healthy communities, and the value of working together. These practical skills build confidence, curiosity and a lifelong connection to food, nature and each other.
As Aotearoa faces increasing pressures on food systems, climate and community wellbeing, programmes like Garden to Table play a vital role in preparing tamariki and rangatahi to become informed food citizens and future leaders.
This inspiring session reminds us that growing resilient communities starts with growing capable, connected young people who understand both the privilege and responsibility of feeding themselves, their whānau and the generations that follow.
YOUR SPEAKERS
Southern Regional Coordinator, Garden to Table; co-founder and grower, Vern Paddock Project; Head of Naturopathy & Formulation, Wild Dispensary; naturopath, medical herbalist and nutritionist.
Queenstown Enviroschools Facilitator
Senior school Teacher / Teacher in Charge of Enviroschools QPS and Garden to Table
Wao Food Resilience Expert Adviser / Food Scientist / Volunteer at QPS Garden to Table