Urban Agriculture Program

At Bundoora Secondary College, we are deeply committed to fostering sustainable practices and equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed for a changing world. Our Urban Agriculture Program is a cornerstone of this vision, offering a rich and immersive curriculum that integrates agricultural science, environmental science, and STEM disciplines.

Through hands-on experiences, students explore the interconnectedness of food systems, sustainability, and technology, gaining practical insights into how these elements shape our communities and environment.

This program is not just about growing plants—it’s about cultivating a mindset of innovation and responsibility. Students learn to apply scientific principles in real-world contexts, experiment with sustainable farming techniques, and understand the role of urban agriculture in addressing global challenges such as food security and climate change.

Market Garden Initiative

In partnership with Local Food Connect (LFC), BSC is proud to launch the Market Garden Initiative, a transformative project designed to create a vibrant hub for learning, collaboration, and community engagement. Located on-site, the Market Garden will serve as a living classroom where students and community members can experience the full cycle of food production, from soil preparation to harvest.

This initiative is more than a garden; it is a platform for local food sustainability, food security, and community resilience. By hosting produce markets and gardening workshops, the Market Garden will strengthen connections between education and community, encouraging shared responsibility for sustainable food systems.

Funding and strategic alignment

The Market Garden is made possible through significant investment and collaboration:

  • A $200,000 grant from the Victorian State Government’s Living Local Fund, originally allocated for an urban farm in Eltham, has been redirected to support our Urban Agriculture Education Centre.

  • Local Food Connect has contributed an additional $250,000 to establish demonstration gardens and essential infrastructure.

This project aligns seamlessly with Banyule Council’s Urban Food Strategy (2023–2027), reinforcing regional efforts to promote local food sustainability and reduce environmental impact.

Educational opportunities for students

The Market Garden will enrich our existing Farm Program, offering students authentic, applied learning experiences in:

  • Market gardening and horticulture

  • Sustainable agriculture practices

  • Environmental stewardship and resource management

Through these opportunities, students will develop practical skills and theoretical knowledge that prepare them for careers in agriculture, environmental science, and related industries. They will also gain a deeper appreciation for sustainability and its role in shaping a healthier future.

Community Engagement and Shared Responsibility

Our vision extends beyond the classroom. The Market Garden will be accessible to the community outside school hours, creating a space where students, educators, and local residents can collaborate, share knowledge, and celebrate the joys of growing food. This initiative aims to foster a sense of belonging and collective responsibility for sustainable living.

Urban Farming is Flourishing at BSC!

We are thrilled to announce the latest addition to our Urban Agriculture & Conservation Program, 44 Foodcubes!

Foodcubes are innovative raised wicking garden beds made from 80% recycled plastic. Each unit holds more than 100 litres of water, allowing for minimal maintenance – they require watering once a fortnight during even the hottest summer months. Adopted by BSC after the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, these beds are now thriving with vibrant vegetables ready for harvest.

Foodcubes represent the future of urban gardening—efficient, sustainable, and beautifully designed.

A huge thank you to Foodcube and Bio Gro for their generous support.

Market days

We are excited about market days – visit the events page for times when yu can purchase our ….

For more information, please contact the school on +61 (03) 9467 1511 or bundoora.sc@education.vic.gov.au.