This morning Winters Flat Primary School students threw open their classroom doors and braved the cold to help plant a new bird sanctuary.

The so-called “birdscape” is roughly the size of one-and-a-half school footy ovals and is filled with 500 native trees, shrubs and grasses.

One day it will also boast bird houses, bird baths, paths, signage and an outdoor learning space.

Sustainability teacher Jeanette McMahon said the school had invited parents and community groups to help plant everything as well as take part in sustainability workshops.

Ms McMahon said students had made all the decisions about what was included in the birdscape.

They reached out to local experts and community groups in the search for plants capable of withstanding severe frosts, long dry spells and occasional flooding from the nearby Campbells Creek.

Elliot Haywood’s grade five class designed the birdscape. 

“I want to see more native birds – like scarlet robins and crimson rosellas,” he said.

Fellow student Gus McCarthy was also hoping to see more native birds.

“They have such vibrant colors,” he said.

“I’d also like to see frogs, especially the kind that burrow into the dirt,” he said.

Both students are school community leaders who are passionate about sustainability. 

“Today is like a working bee. You get to be with heaps of people who are all doing something to make the school a better place,” Gus said.

Gus said the student leadership group had worked hard to make sure younger kids were part of school-wide conversations about sustainability.

“They really enjoy having ideas and getting involved,” he said.

Gus himself broadcasts weather forecasts before home-time most days.

“So I might say ‘It’s going to be windy tomorrow’, and people will know to bring their jumpers. Then they don’t feel chilly and keep classroom heaters on for as long,” he said.

Last year Winters Flat PS was recognised for its focus on sustainability with the ResourceSmart School of the Year award.

The annual awards recognise schools and early learning services who are contributing to healthier, more sustainable state.

It also comes with a $10,000 cheque from Momentum Energy.

The school used the money for the birdscape and well as new solar panels.