Don't worry, bee happy

Release date: 14 November 2023

This National Pollinator Week, Ulong Public School is showing us that even our smallest schools can have a big impact on the environment. 

The school began their journey in 2021 with their Sustainable Schools Grant (SSG) project, aptly named "Don't Worry Bee Happy". The project aimed to increase biodiversity at the school by introducing native stingless bees into their veggie patch and playground. Fast forward 2 years on, the bees are still happily buzzing around and providing honey for the school canteen.

The project kicked off with an immersive science unit focused on bees and pollination. Students delved into 'bee' books, exploring lifecycles, pollination processes, and the environmental impact of these fascinating creatures. The knowledge gained helped students better understand the interconnectedness between bees and our planet.

One of the project's highlights was the acquisition of a native beehive, accompanied by an engaging talk by a local apiarist that fascinated the students. With great fanfare, the bees were released into the school gardens, where they now play a vital role in pollinating the flourishing flora. 

A dedicated spiral garden was cultivated with a variety of bee-friendly plant species, providing a haven for these industrious insects. Students were not only involved in planting at school but also took seedlings home to further contribute to bee-friendly environments in their communities.

An educational visit to the Honey House at Urunga added a unique experiential element to the project. Here, students had the extraordinary opportunity to witness a queen bee laying eggs, deepening their appreciation for these remarkable creatures.

The project actively engaged all 16 students who attend the school, 4 staff members who contributed hours of work, along with the assistance of 2 dedicated volunteers. A true community effort!

Through the SSG program and "Don't Worry Bee Happy", Ulong Public School has not only nurtured a new awareness of the importance of bees but also actively contributed to safeguarding our native bee population.