Schools invited to join the Let's Get it Sorted Schools Challenge 2025

Published on 31 January 2025

Did you know that nearly half of the waste in school landfill bins can be recycled or composted?

Ballina Shire Council is calling on local schools to become Waste Wise in 2025 by joining the Let’s Get it Sorted Schools Challenge. This engaging program is designed to reduce waste sent to landfill, improve resource recovery, and inspire positive environmental change in schools and the wider community.

Open to primary and secondary schools, the program runs throughout the school year and provides participating schools with free resources, visits from Council’s Resource Recovery Education Officer, and funding of up to $500 for approved waste reduction initiatives.

Why Participate?

By embracing the challenge, schools can save money on waste services, protect the environment, and empower students to lead sustainable practices.

The program aligns with the sustainability priority of the Australian Curriculum and supports multiple areas of the NSW Education syllabus. It’s a unique opportunity for students to engage in hands-on learning while making a real difference.

What’s Involved?

• Championing the project - schools can choose a class or form a team to lead the challenge.
• Waste audits - Council will conduct or assist with a school-wide waste audit to identify areas for improvement.
• Action plans - schools will develop tailored plans focusing on initiatives such as implementing the 3-bin system, promoting nude food lunches, or establishing composting programs.
• Community engagement - activities like poster competitions, waste-to-art projects, and school swaps encourage broader involvement.
• Evaluation and celebration - schools will measure their progress through follow-up audits, celebrate their achievements, and share success stories with the community.

Join the Challenge Today!

To register or learn more about the Let’s Get it Sorted Schools Challenge, contact Ballina Shire Council’s Resource Recovery team at 6686 1287 or visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/school-programs

Expressions of interest for the program close 28 February 2025.