Empower your school students education with everything they need to know about sustainability and the circular economy!
Our Melbourne-based, award winning education program has been designed specifically for school students, and uses a hands-on approach to cover topics such as:
– Why and how to recycle with plastic
– Where plastic comes from
– The damage caused by plastic
– How we can all work together to solve our plastic problem
We believe that education is a vital component for solving the issue of single-use plastic. Help us teach and inspire our future generations to create a healthier planet.
Our programs can be booked for a one hour event to six hours. Find out more and book our program for your school enquire today.
“What a sensational session!” – Rosie, Yarra Valley Grammar
Education Program Outline
Our education programs are based on STEAM principles and developed in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. They have been developed in partnership with teachers, environmental scientists and plastic engineers, who have all volunteered their time.
All our education programs cover the following:
- The impact of single-use plastic (SUP) on the environment; in particular lids
- Micro-plastics and where they fit in
- How plastic is made and the life-cycle of plastic
- Ways we can all help recuse plastic lids and be more sustainable
- How we remanufacture and what products we make
- How your school or organisation can become a circular environment
- All presenters have current Working With Children Checks
Educational Trailer
Empower your school, community or organisation with hands-on education, this innovative initiative brings the principles of the circular economy directly to your doorstep.
Introducing RUSTIE! Our Regenerative Up-cycling Solar-powered Trailer with Interactive Education.
- Interactive Education: Engage in hands-on learning about the circular economy and waste transformation.
- Circular Solutions: Witness waste become valuable products through interactive demonstrations.
- Off-Grid Operation: Powered by solar panels, our trailer operates anywhere, anytime, reducing environmental impact.
- Flexible Booking: Tailor your experience, from hour-long sessions to full-day events, for any audience.
- Informative Engagement: Enjoy informative content on TV screens while our team interacts with participants.
- All-Ages Fun: Our program is engaging for all ages, promoting sustainability and action.
- Community Impact: Book the trailer to invest in your community’s sustainable future.
Enquire Today
Our Educators
Mat Card – RRC Founder and Presenter
Mat brings to this education program a wealth of experience gained across many industries over his career. He has lived, studied and worked all over Australia and the world including Melbourne, Sydney, London and Dallas and has had the fortunate opportunity to be a stay-at-home dad for his daughter for 15 years.
As a result, he has a strong ability to communicate and present to all age groups in many settings, and is a key element of our presentations. Mat brings to his presentations his inspiring journey which lead him to found RRC. “I become fed up with my high-consumer lifestyle and decided it’s time to give back.”
Kym O’Shannassy – CEO & Lead Presenter
Kym was introduced to sustainability at a young age, long before it became a widely recognised concept. Growing up, her early experiences shaped her passion for sustainable living.
With over 20 years of experience running her own travel business, Kym honed her leadership and teamwork skills, managing a diverse team across different ages and backgrounds. These experiences have equipped her with the ability to connect with and educate individuals from all walks of life.
In 2023, Kym’s dedication to sustainability was recognised when she was admitted to the University of Tasmania Roll of Excellence for her exceptional academic performance in the Diploma of Sustainable Living. Her deep knowledge and commitment to sustainable practices are at the heart of her work with Rethink Recycling Co-op (RRC), where she has been actively involved in the educational program since its inception. Now playing a key role in running the program, Kym’s background uniquely positions her to lead and inspire others in understanding and embracing the principles of the circular economy.
Tess Ellul – Presenter
Tess brings over 33 years of teaching experience to our education team, having inspired young minds to read, write, create art, and thrive in special education. With a deep passion for helping the community and volunteering for causes that make a difference, Tess is now exploring a new path in Horticulture. Her dedication to the environment and sustainability aligns perfectly with our mission, as she helps others learn how we can collectively help the planet get back on track.
Jim Young – Makerspace manager & Lead Presenter
Jim is a creative genius, dabbling in illustration and graphic design, and always eager to experiment with new ideas.
When he’s not wiring up the world or creating stunning visuals, Jim enjoys music and has a special fondness for tiny Japanese vehicles.
In 2022, Jim decided it was time to explore new avenues and make a positive impact. After diving into the @preciousplasticvictoria movement on YouTube, he discovered Rethink and felt an instant connection. He joined us as a volunteer and has been a vital part of our community ever since, working on small projects, getting RUSTIE into the community, and helping us grow.
Graeme Churchward – Plastics Advisor & Presenter
Graeme brings with him over 35 years of working within the plastics industry. He spent his career lecturing plastic engineering at RMIT, implementing plastic recycling systems into Marks & Spencer’s (UK), developing and delivering continuous improvement training courses for the Australian Management Academy, and serving on the board of the Society of Plastics Engineers Australia. Graeme has been an integral advisor and mentor to development of our programs.
Graeme is now assisting with both Primary and Secondary school presentations, as well as helping Mat and Kym writing the programs.
Our Partners
Precious Plastic Monash Uni (PPM) – Co-developer, Program Partner and Presenter
Rethink Recycling Co-op is proud to be partnering with PPM, who have pioneered the Precious Plastic movement in Australia. PPM have been learning, doing and teaching plastic recycling since foundation, and have co-developed our education program. The result is an informative, immersive and interactive educational experience for all ages.
Travis Burrows – Teaching advisor
Travis has been teaching plastic recycling in schools for over 10 years and is responsible for setting up micro-plastic recycling facilities in schools around Melbourne. He offers his expert advice, ideas, insights and partnership in education program development.
Design and Technology Teachers Association (DATTA) – Program partner
DATTA is a national association of teachers set up as a resource organisation who have partnered with us to help drive the implementation of plastic recycling principles and practices into schools.
Louis Walmsley – Course Co-developer
Louis has just completed his Bachelor of Global Studies/Science with an Environmental Science Extended Major and International Studies Specialisation.
“I chose to study environmental science as I have always wanted to create positive change in the world and have often felt a deep connection to nature.”