The Class 8 children recently embarked on an enriching journey, intertwining the wisdom of the Noongar Whadjuk people with the vibrant study of ecology.

The Noongar Whadjuk, the traditional guardians of the Perth region, have fostered a profound bond with the land for over 65,000 years. Their intricate knowledge and cultural practices mirror the rich biodiversity of the Swan Coastal Plain.  As a testament to their deep environmental insight and the delicate equilibrium they’ve maintained through the centuries, students developed their own six-season calendar. 

Inspired by this enduring legacy, our students have delved into the ecological tapestry that envelops our school. They’ve experienced the land through the sensory rhythms of the “Second Summer” (Bunuru), “Autumn” (Djeran), and the “First Rains” (Makuru) seasons—feeling, observing, and inhaling the transformative essence of our surroundings. 

In a creative fusion of art and science, the students crafted Phenology Wheels, capturing the six Noongar Whadjuk seasons with vivid illustrations and narratives, each segment a colourful chronicle of the land’s seasonal heartbeat. 

Our exploration extended beyond the classroom, venturing into diverse biomes and intricate food webs. The students’ imaginations soared on a fantastical odyssey across the desert, where emus, llamas, and camels became their companions in a whimsical tableau of learning and discovery. 

This educational voyage has not only enriched our students’ understanding of the environment but has also deepened their appreciation and connection to the shared land we call home. It is a journey that celebrates the rhythm of change and the timeless dance of nature, not unlike the journey of being a Class 8 student. 

Bill Bennett 

(Class 8 Ecology Teacher)