Soil, critters and curious minds- A deep dive into Biodiversity for students in the North West region of NSW.
Students explored the hidden world of soil, water, and critters through hands-on workshops and expert-led activities. This engaging event fostered environmental curiosity, built knowledge of ecosystem health, and inspired the next generation to become active stewards of the land—one handful of dirt and one tiny critter at a time.
Capacity building - LEP-23
The issue
Young people are increasingly disconnected from nature, with limited understanding of critical environmental systems like soil health, biodiversity, and water cycles. Traditional classroom settings often lack the hands-on, engaging experiences needed to spark curiosity about ecosystems. Without early exposure to environmental science in action, students miss the opportunity to connect the dots between healthy soils, climate resilience, food systems, and their role in caring for the planet. Bridging this knowledge gap is crucial for building the next generation of environmental stewards, especially in rural and regional areas where land management and sustainability are key to community wellbeing.
The solution
Over 170 students from the Peel region experienced a transformative day of immersive learning at the Schools Biodiversity Day. Through hands-on workshops and expert-led activities, students explored biodiversity, soil health, water retention, and regenerative farming. They tested soils, designed regenerative farms, planted seeds, and met real-life scientists, educators, and farmers. The result? Students left excited, inspired, and better informed—many expressing a new appreciation for nature and how they can protect it. The event didn’t just teach science—it created emotional and intellectual connections that could influence future careers and build stronger ties between youth and the environment.
The impact
Carbon8 and Tamworth Regional Landcare Association partnered with educators, farmers, and scientists to deliver a hands-on, interactive Schools Biodiversity Day. The event featured dynamic workshops on pollinators, soil organisms, regenerative farming, water cycles, and healthy food systems. By engaging students through creativity, storytelling, and scientific experimentation, the day brought to life the complex systems beneath our feet. The collaborative model ensured students weren’t just passive learners but active participants. Through connection, curiosity, and community, this model can be replicated to engage students across rural Australia and grow a generation empowered to care for country and climate.
Key facts
- 1. Over 170 students from the Peel region attended the Schools Biodiversity Day on 16 May 2025.
- 2. Carbon8 and Tamworth Regional Landcare Association (TRLA) partnered to deliver the event.
- 3. Students participated in hands-on workshops covering pollinators, soil health, water cycles, and biodiversity.
- 4. Seven presenters, including scientists, educators, authors, and farmers, delivered engaging, interactive sessions.
- 5. Students explored regenerative farming, soil testing, and ecosystem connections through creative and tactile activities.
- 6. The event aimed to inspire future environmental stewards and connect young people to real-world sustainability practices.