The Greener Grass Collective has teamed up with The Old Priory to teach school students about sustainability through a hands-on program.

The one, two, three and four-day camps aim to create a shift in thinking in young people’s relationship with their food.

Greener Grass Collective co-founder and secondary school teacher, Dannielle Bell, said the Greener Grass program would give students knowledge, skills and opportunities to thrive in an ever-changing world.

“As a teacher myself, I regularly witness the real learning, the real shifts in mindset, the real growth often takes place out in the world, in hands-on, real life experiences,” she said.

“By understanding where their food comes from and experiencing the importance of sharing and connecting around food, they become part of a future that is about harnessing these life skills and thriving together, rather than competing against each other.”

The students meet producers to learn the “farm to fork” process and Beechworth Food Co-op and farm gates to explore sustainable food distribution systems.

Kardinia International College will join a four-day camp in August while Galen Catholic College students did a one-day pilot in May.

Co-founder of both the Greener Grass Collective and Beechworth Food Co-op Jade Miles said the program inspired young people.

“We have the chance to capture the imaginations of the next generation,” she said.

“Lighting up the fair food story will sow the seed of desire for real change in the way we experience our food.

“It will take them on a journey towards rebuilding communities, reconnecting people and restoring a deep respect for our land.”

The Old Priory owner Pam Bell welcomed the program.

“The main focus of our current school camp program is to immerse both students and teachers into the rich history and culture Beechworth and our region has to offer,” she said.

“Greener Grass offers an extension to what’s available and allows students to gain the knowledge of where food comes from and to engage with the production, preparation and consumption of food as an experience.”

For inquiries about the Greener Grass program contact The Old Priory by email: info@oldpriory.com.au