calling for

coffs harbour schools

Join the 2026 Rethink Waste schools

free Program

Who can apply?

Primary schools in the Coffs Harbour area (this program is suitable for students in years 3–6).

When?

The program will be delivered in Terms 1 & 2, 2026 (workshops scheduled with each school).

Available places?

We have 6 places for Coffs Harbour schools.

Cost?

Thanks to the City of Coffs Harbour, this program is free!

Empower your students to lead real impact

Rethink Waste Schools is a hands-on, student-led program that turns your classroom into a hub of inquiry, creativity and action.

Students in Years 3–6 investigate how waste moves through your school, run a simple waste audit, explore the circular economy and design a project that reduces waste for real.

The program culminates in a public celebration where students showcase their projects at the Coffs Harbour City Library.

What your school receives - at no cost

Five in-school workshops delivered by experienced OzGREEN facilitators.
Teacher support - planning, resources, and on-call guidance.
Parent helper guidance for smooth, safe activities.
Up to $600 in project materials to bring student ideas to life.
Printed infographic posters to share your impact across the school.
Public showcase at Coffs Harbour City Library.

What your students will learn

Investigate

Map your current waste streams and conduct a school waste audit.

Understand

Learn how the circular economy works—reduce, reuse, repair, recycle.

Design

Create a student-led waste reduction project tailored to your school.

Communicate

Produce posters, campaigns and infographics to influence behaviour.

This program is curriculum-rich and involves inquiry learning, data collection, persuasive texts, visual literacy, design thinking, teamwork and leadership—all embedded in a meaningful local project.

Past projects include beeswax wrap campaigns, composting systems, student-designed bin stickers, waste-reduction videos and even upcycled musical instruments.

“The OzGREEN waste education program has been absolutely amazing for our students.”

- Teacher, Rethink Waste Schools Program, 2025
“I learnt that I can make a change if I try hard enough.”

- Student, Rethink Waste Schools Program, 2025

how to apply

it’s quick!

Chat with your leadership team and pick a lead teacher/class.
Nominate preferred workshop days/times in Terms 1–2.
Submit your application at the link below :

Registration Form

thank you to the city of coffs harbour for making this program possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The program, including workshops, resources and up to $600 project materials, is fully funded.
Five in-school workshops (we come to you), plus coordination between sessions. We provide a simple teacher pack to make it easy.
Ideal for a single class (Years 3–6) or a mixed “Green Team” of 20–30 students. We can adapt to your context.
No. We bring what’s needed and help you choose materials for your student project using the provided budget.
Absolutely - waste-free lunches, garden/compost, SRC, Enviro Teams, visual arts, persuasive writing and STEM links all fit beautifully.