Keira High School on Dharawal Country is now home to a Tiny Forest, a vibrant pocket of bushland driving environmental learning and a greener future.

Created in partnership with Wollongong City Council’s Youth Forum, and following months of planning, the miniature ecosystem brings new life, learning opportunities, and increased local biodiversity to the school grounds.

Keira High School’s Vice-Captain and Forum representative, Fatima Al-Taleb, said the project would be a legacy for generations to come, providing an attractive and healthy environment for both people and wildlife.

“We’re looking towards the future and the uncertainty of what the environment will look like, and what the repercussions will be for us and the world we live in,” she told Wollongong Council.

“Tiny Forests are a proven project that we could build on by bringing it to where young people are and thereby gaining maximum exposure and involvement.

“As young leaders, we were able to present the project to Keira High School with an allocated budget through the forum, which was great because it came at no financial cost to the school.”

She explained the initiative involved close collaboration between key stakeholders from both the school and council.

“It was a process of involving key stakeholders from within the school and council to plan and deliver the project over the course of the year, from consultation through to completion,” Fatima said.

“It’s really exciting to bring the school community together and shine a light on environmental issues and the positive contribution of young people.”

The Tiny Forest features a diverse selection of native vegetation, including Bleeding Heart, Prickly-leaved Tea Tree, and Grey Myrtle, sourced from Wollongong’s Botanic Garden.

Guided by garden staff, students planted the vegetation closely together to replicate the layers of a natural forest. The initiative is expected to boost local biodiversity, create habitat for wildlife and insects, and support cleaner air and water.

Keira High School Principal, Scott Frazier, said the construction of the Tiny Forest was a team effort.

“It has been fantastic to provide an opportunity for our young people to take ownership and be connected to a positive change,” Mr Frazier said.

“I am proud of Fatima for her persistence and dedication in successfully leading this project.

“Climate change and the environment are important issues for young Australians, and this Tiny Forest gives our students a valuable chance to take action and contribute to a better future.”