A win for Cardijn and Mother Nature
News
When it comes to educating future green thumbs and educational warriors, Carmen Moyse, Eco literacy Coordinator at Cardijn College Galilee, knows a hands-on approach is powerful.
As part of the college’s Eco-Literacy Program, Carmen transformed the Galilee campus into a living classroom. There, wetlands, indigenous plant trails, produce gardens, butterfly habitats, frog ponds, and sensory gardens provide immersive opportunities for students to connect with the natural world.
For her efforts, she accepted the Laudato Si’ accolade at the 2026 Catholic Education Awards. The recognition was not just a win for the school, but also for the environment.
“The recognition reflects the shared commitment and dedication of so many passionate people who have contributed to Galilee’s journey over the past two decades,” Carmen said. “From the school’s original leadership team and past staff, to our current leadership, staff, families, students and volunteers.”
Carmen was praised for her exceptional leadership and dedication to bringing the vision of Laudato Si’ to life through ecological education, faith formation, and community engagement.
“Galilee’s Eco Literacy Program stands as a powerful example of collective action grounded in care for our common home and inspired by the values of Laudato Si’,” she said.
Carmen has spent 18 years shaping a program that nurtures students as stewards of creation, fostering a deep understanding of their responsibility to care for the environment and respond to both the “cry of the earth” and the “cry of the poor”.
Through her leadership, Eco-Literacy has become embedded within the culture and daily life of the Galilee community. She has created meaningful partnerships with parish members, families, volunteers, Green Adelaide, conservation groups, and local Kaurna people, promoting intergenerational learning and shared care for creation. Her vision and commitment have ensured the program continues to evolve while remaining grounded in Gospel values and authentic, hands-on learning experiences.
“Over the nearly 20 years we have had strong partnerships with many outside organisations, including our close collaboration with Green Adelaide and School Officer Jeremy Gramp. Jeremy has played an integral role in developing our outdoor learning spaces with the students and staff.”
She has also led initiatives such as Wetland Warriors, Environmental Ecologists, Passionate Permaculture, and the successful “Magic Harvest in Schools” pilot program, which has since expanded widely.
Central to Carmen’s work is her ability to connect ecological education with faith, justice, and compassion. Students develop not only environmental awareness, but also empathy, generosity, and a strong sense of social responsibility.
“It’s the students who should also be recognised,” she said after accepting the award.
“It is wonderful to see that year after year, we witness their curiosity, enthusiasm and genuine care for the environment. They are the next generation of changemakers, and their commitment gives great hope for the future of our school community and the environment.”
