Balvenie Primary School proudly participated in the annual National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) Information Day, held at Calitzdorp Secondary School in the Klein Karoo. Ms. E. Jantjies attended the event on behalf of the school, where schools from across the province gathered to showcase their outstanding nutrition and gardening initiatives.

The programme, which took place on Friday, 15 May, highlighted the important role that school gardens and nutrition projects play in supporting teaching, learning, and learner development. Schools that excelled in the 2025 Garden Competition presented inspiring slide shows featuring their vegetable gardens, trees, animals, and curriculum-linked projects involving learners.

The day began with a guided tour through the beautiful landscape gardens of Calitzdorp Secondary School, giving attendees an opportunity to explore innovative gardening ideas and sustainable practices. Participants shared valuable knowledge and experiences on how schools can use gardening projects to promote healthy eating habits, environmental awareness, teamwork, and practical learning opportunities for learners.
Balvenie Primary School also showcased its Small-Scale Mushroom Production Project, which has made a meaningful impact on learners at the school. The project started after the school received information about growing Oyster Mushrooms and attended a specialised workshop. Since then, learners have actively participated in caring for the mushroom kits, learning responsibility, patience, collaboration, and agricultural skills.

What began as a small School of Skills initiative quickly grew into a project that inspired many learners. Learners worked together in groups, took ownership of daily tasks, and proudly watched their mushroom clusters grow. The project not only taught practical cultivation skills but also boosted learner confidence, encouraged teamwork, and strengthened their sense of accomplishment.

Despite challenges such as maintaining the mushrooms during weekends and school holidays, the school community worked together to ensure the success of the project. Through dedication and teamwork, the Mushroom Project became a powerful example of hands-on learning and sustainable education in action.

Balvenie Primary School remains committed to creating meaningful learning opportunities that empower learners, encourage environmental responsibility, and promote holistic development. The school is proud of the learners and staff involved in these initiatives and looks forward to continuing projects that inspire growth, creativity, and lifelong learning.