The Northrand Methodist Church Eco-Sanctuary, an environmentally friendly shrine in Northriding recently welcomed the Sharonlea Primary School for their very first showcase.
“Our mission is to educate children and adults alike on environmental awareness and care for creatures in the domestic and wild circuit. This was our very first event and we hope to hold many more,” said the head organiser John Roussouw.
Roussow stated that the church re-created nine biomes found in South Africa, some of which are Grassland, Bushveld, Fynbos, karoo and highveld. “Over sixty trees have been planted to identify with the different biomes. These include twenty four indigenous tree species including white stinkwood, wild pear, the coral tree, weeping Boer bean, monkey thorn, karee, wild olive and many more.”
The primary school grade four pupils had a chance to experience and learn how the natural resources of the planet can be used. They were given a tour of our eco-sanctuary and had lectures on domestic environmental awareness and urban wildlife awareness and lastly an interactive workshop and lunch.
Sharonlea Primary School teacher Michelle Coads said, “The grade four pupils at our school are currently learning about different habitats this is why we thought it would be a great idea to bring them to the eco-sanctuary. This had been a great opportunity for them to learn more about nature.”
This educational excursion may have been the very first eco-sanctuary visit of its kind but Roussouw is optimistic that it would not be the last and he urged business people to get involved in the project. “Schools, families and even other churches are invited to visit us. We also welcome any businesses that wish to get involved with this project,” urged Roussouw.
Details: Sharonlea Primary School 011 704 3088/9 or John Roussouw johnroussouw@gmail.com
