Call for Coffs Harbour Schools to Join Free Rethink Waste Schools 2026 Program
OzGREEN is inviting schools across the Coffs Harbour area to apply for a place in the Rethink Waste Schools 2026 Program
Rethink Waste Schools is a free, hands-on initiative designed to inspire young people to lead the way in reducing waste and caring for the environment.
Thanks to the support of the City of Coffs Harbour, six schools will be selected to participate in this exciting program during Terms 1 and 2, 2026.
The Rethink Waste Schools program empowers students in Years 3–6 to investigate their school’s waste systems, carry out a waste audit and explore how the circular economy works in practice. From these findings, students design and deliver their own waste reduction project and learn to communicate their message through posters, campaigns and infographics that inspire the whole school community. The program culminates in a celebration where students share their projects with the public through a display at Coffs Harbour City Library.
Each selected school will receive five in-school workshops led by OzGREEN facilitators, support for teachers and parents who are involved, up to $600 worth of project materials to bring student ideas to life and printed infographic posters to showcase the impact of student’s projects.
Past projects have included beeswax wrap campaigns, composting systems, student-designed bin stickers, waste reduction videos and upcycled music instruments. This program not only reduces waste but builds student leadership, teamwork and practical sustainability skills.
Teachers and students consistently describe the program as inspiring, empowering and transformative.
“The OzGREEN waste education program has been absolutely amazing for our students.” - Teacher
“I learnt that I can make a change if I try hard enough.” - Student
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Applications are now open at www.ozgreen.org/rethinkwasteschools
Only six schools will be selected to take part in this free program, so schools are encouraged to apply now.
