Kitchen Garden

KITCHEN GARDEN AND FOOD TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS

At Montrose Primary School, we believe in giving students real-world learning experiences that inspire healthy habits, curiosity, and collaboration. In 2023, we proudly introduced our Kitchen Garden Program for Grade 3 and 4 students, alongside Food Technology classes for students in Prep–2 and Grades 5–6.

These engaging, hands-on programs empower students with the skills to grow, harvest, prepare and enjoy nutritious food, while deepening their understanding of sustainability, wellbeing, and the joy of sharing a meal.

Kitchen Garden Program – Grades 3 & 4

Our 12-month Kitchen Garden Program begins in the second half of Grade 3 and concludes with a special graduation mid-year in Grade 4. Students alternate weekly between two focus areas:

Cooking Sessions

Held in our purpose-built kitchen and dining space, students work with seasonal produce to cook a wide variety of culturally diverse recipes. Each session ends with students setting the table and coming together to enjoy the meal they’ve prepared—building community and pride in their accomplishments.

Garden & Food Classroom Sessions

In the Kitchen Garden Classroom, students explore food systems, nutrition, advertising, and media through engaging projects such as:

• Investigating sugar content in popular snacks

• Designing food packaging and advertisements

• Creating and filming their own cooking shows

With the addition of our new outdoor garden learning space, students will take part in the full cycle of gardening—from soil preparation and planting to composting, harvesting, and caring for crops. These experiences foster a deep connection to nature and sustainability.

Food Technology – Prep–2 & Grades 5–6

To ensure every student at Montrose Primary gains essential food knowledge and skills, our Food Technology program extends beyond the Kitchen Garden years. Students across all other year levels participate in age-appropriate cooking and food education, helping them build confidence in the kitchen and a positive relationship with food.

Why It Matters

These programs go far beyond gardening and cooking. They nurture:

• Teamwork and collaboration

• Creative and critical thinking

• Personal responsibility and independence

• A strong sense of wellbeing and togetherness

As students grow, cook, and share meals together, they learn not only about food—but about themselves, their peers, and the world around them.

Our Kitchen Garden and Food technology Programs have inspired a passion for cooking throughout the school, with many students utilising their diverse skills to cook for and with their families.