The Young Environmental Leaders (YELP) program at HILLS is not just an educational endeavour; it's a movement. Designed to inspire and equip our students, this initiative harnesses their passion and dedication, transforming them into proactive environmental stewards right within our school community.

Spanning a spectrum of eco-conscious projects, the program immerses students in various sustainability initiatives. From celebrating National Tree Day and emphasizing the significance of reforestation, to establishing composting systems that reduce waste and rejuvenate the soil, every project is a hands-on learning experience.

Each year, we come together to celebrate National Tree Day at HILLS with a week brimming with green activities, beautifully orchestrated by our dynamic YELP leaders! This isn’t just an annual event—it's a cherished tradition. Our eager attendees from reception join hands with our seasoned Year 6 students, marking the land with newly planted saplings. Throughout the week, students eagerly monitor their tree's growth, deepen their understanding of trees' indispensable roles in our ecosystem, and tenderly care for their young green companions. With every iteration, participants dive into a hands-on education about our beloved planet, walking away with memories of green thumbs and shared commitments. Together at HILLS, we root for a better future, year after year. 

At Hills, we're proud to present our Garden to Kitchen program, a wonderful initiative inspired by the renowned Stephanie Alexander. Our mission is to cultivate not just plants, but also a profound appreciation for real food and the magic of hands-on learning in young minds. Through this immersive experience, students have the delightful opportunity to get their hands dirty in our garden and then bring their harvest to the kitchen. Under guidance, they learn to transform fresh, home-grown ingredients into delectable meals. Beyond cooking, the program instils values of sustainability, nutritional understanding, and the joys of community dining. Join us in sowing seeds of knowledge, growth, and culinary adventure!

Biological Sciences: Understanding the variety and adaptability of life forms in various Australian ecosystems. This could involve studying native plants, animals, and their adaptations to the unique Australian environment.

Earth and Space Sciences: Observing and analyzing the Australian landscape, from its rock formations to its unique weather patterns. Field trips might include visits to local geological sites, star gazing, or understanding traditional Indigenous Australian perspectives on constellations.

Physical Sciences: Learning about the properties of materials and how they change in different conditions, perhaps by observing the effects of sunlight, wind, and water in outdoor settings.

Chemical Sciences: Investigating the properties and behaviour of substances found in nature, such as the pH levels of soil or the chemistry of natural water sources.

Environmental Awareness: Understanding the importance of conservation, sustainable practices, and the human impact on diverse Australian habitats. This might involve studying the effects of pollution on local waterways or examining the relationship between native species and introduced ones.

Indigenous Knowledge: Incorporating the rich scientific understanding and land management practices of Indigenous Australians. This could be learning about traditional bush medicines, fire management practices, or the significance of certain plants and animals in Indigenous cultures.

Practical Skills: Building practical outdoor skills like orienteering, understanding weather patterns for safety, or learning how to observe and document wildlife responsibly.

Sustainability: Learning about the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of sustainable practices to ensure the health and longevity of our planet.

Seasonal Changes: Observing and understanding the seasonal changes in the Australian environment, the behaviours of animals during these periods, and the blooming patterns of plants.

Human Interaction with Nature: Reflecting on the history and future of human interaction with the Australian environment, from agriculture to urban development, and understanding the consequences of these interactions.

At the heart of HILLS lies a dedicated team of educators who converge regularly, sharing a common passion: revolutionizing nature education. This elite Green Think-Tank goes beyond the textbook, brainstorming innovative ways to seamlessly weave the wonders of the natural world into diverse subjects. From ensuring safety in nature, and curating eco-centric events, to spearheading advanced professional development sessions for our staff, this team is the driving force behind HILLS's nature-first philosophy. Together, they are shaping a comprehensive and dynamic nature education platform that not only informs but inspires. Join us on this green journey as we nurture the next generation of environmental stewards.