Apal partners with Montague on pilot education programme

To help inspire and attract the next generation to a career in the apple and pear industry, Apal has worked with Montague to develop a pilot education programme for primary school-aged students. 

Through the development of a suite of workbooks and resources, the programme aims to educate students about the journey of fruit production and help them better understand the seasons, life cycles, food waste, innovation, technology, and the industry supply chain. 

The ‘Land to Lunchbox’ programme for children in kindergarten through to grade two teaches students about healthy eating, innovation and technology and includes the plans for a guided tour of Montague’ packing and distribution facility. 

For older students in years three to six, the ‘STEM in the Orchard’ programme builds a deeper understanding of plant features, fruit varieties, people and occupations in the industry, and consumer behaviour. 

The Montague pilot programme covers curriculum areas including science, maths, technologies (design and technologies), and humanities (geography and history) through various interactive activities, lesson plans, and on-site excursions.  

Programme itineraries with curriculum links for Victorian teachers have also been developed for seamless adoption and rollout. 

“Welcoming people through the doors at The Orchard at Montague and hearing feedback from visitors to Stella’s Kitchen restaurant and Bill’s Orchard Gate (retail) we recognised there was a stronger opportunity to share insights and educate school groups and students,” said Angela Bracken, senior marketing manager at Montague. 

“We are excited to attract and educate the next generation with a range of engaging tools and classroom resources so that they can form a greater understanding of our industry and the many different career opportunities in horticulture — from the orchard business and agronomy, right through to the packhouse operations.” 

Through the pilot programme, Apal hopes to further build a suite of assets that orchard businesses across the growing regions can adapt and customise for local application.