Catholic Education SA is delighted to have Professor Paul Clarke in Adelaide again working with our schools. Paul brings his engaging, creative “hands on” approach as he helps students and teachers to better understand and care for the environment. Paul is co-founder of the Pop-Up-Foundation – a creative organisation helping sustainability projects to “pop up” in schools. He is also professor of education at St Mary's University College, London.
From 19 to 29 October Paul is leading a range of engaging events and activities including a three day Ecology Colloquium: Our Common Home – A Shared Inheritance at West Beach, a day at St Brigid’s School, Kilburn; Ecology and Consciousness Evening at the Catholic Education Conference Centre; the Forest of Eden Student Forum day for 9 schools and also a Naturally Smart Permaculture Pilot Group at Marymount College, Hove; a day with SHEAP (Southern Hills Ecological Action Project); a day at Holy Family, Parafield Gardens and finally from 27-29 October a three day Naturally Smart Permaculture for Schools hosted at Nazareth Primary Campus, Findon.
Paul has a rare insight into the scale of the challenges the world is facing and an understanding of how education can make a tangible difference.
“We need to recognise that an education that is not grounded in a full understanding of our relationship with the natural world is no education at all,” says Professor Clarke.
Paul is a passionate advocate for an eco-literate future. He’s a creative thinker who connects communities who need help with other communities willing to lend a hand.
“Schools are perfectly placed to create the conditions for innovative and imaginative solutions.”
One of the initiatives he’s sharing is the ‘Naturally Smart’ Permaculture for Schools program which connects the ecologically focused permaculture movement with schools.
The program has evolved over the last two decades through trials of ideas, resources and field studies.
“I believe that change will come when we learn about and start making small changes in our behaviour."
He leads young people on a journey of discovery towards building a better world for everything and everyone.
“When we share learning – designing and creating together – we reap outcomes that energise people,” said Paul.
“This creates a powerful momentum for change, owned by everyone, grown by everyone.”
Intergenerational playgroups are truly something special — an experience that enriches the lives of both the young and the older members of our community. These playgroups are more than just a space for children to play; they are a vital platform for different generations to come together, share wisdom, and build meaningful relationships.
