Remote school gardens: exploring a cost‐effective and novel way to engage Australian Indigenous students in nutrition and health |
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Authors: | Andrew Hume Alexander Wetten Camilla Feeney Sally Taylor Kerin O'Dea Julie Brimblecombe |
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Affiliation: | 1. Menzies School of Health Research, Northern Territory;2. Northern Territory Department of Health;3. WA Country Health Service, , Western Australia;4. School of Population Health, University of South Australia |
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Abstract: | Objective : This pilot study aimed to determine the feasibility of a novel, low‐cost program to get remote schools started in gardening and nutrition activities, for a lower cost than existing models, and without on‐the‐ground horticultural support. Methods : A multi‐site, mixed methods case study was undertaken, in which four remote schools were shipped gardening materials and a nutrition and cooking resource, and provided with horticultural support by phone and email. A support register and teacher surveys were used for four months of evaluation. Results : The study demonstrated that the program is feasible, and may be associated with an increase from baseline in student's time spent cooking, gardening and on related classroom activities. Conclusions : The program was delivered economically without the need for on‐the‐ground staff, in a manner that was acceptable to teachers. Implications : This model may have application in remote schools throughout Australia, where there is a need to alter health impacting behaviours in high‐risk populations. Lengthier program evaluation times and further resource development may be worth investigating in the future. |
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Keywords: | Aboriginal nutrition education horticulture |
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