The students won waste school of the year and teacher Kate Morgan won teacher of the year.

Ms Morgan said the students had created a giant cub of waste and presented it at assembly.

She said it allowed other students and teachers to visualise how much waste they produce in a year.

The cube was 1.3 metres by 1.3 metres and it took months to create. 

Sustainability Victoria’s chief executive Stan Krpan said the awards provided schools with an opportunity to showcase their efforts at a statewide level and to learn from each other.

“What’s most impressive is the breadth of programs that students, teachers and their wider communities are involved with,” he saud.

“These are creative actions that reduce energy and water use and the creation of waste.

“Other projects increase biodiversity, and open gateways into the wider community.

“They’re influenced by local issues and interests, and what’s achievable for them.

“This is a program that’s all about long term commitment and building on programs already underway in schools.”

Mr Krpan said students were also learning about project planning and delivery, patience and working with others.

“These schools have done an exemplary job, and really set the benchmark for others to strive for next year,” he said.

“Sustainability Victoria encourages all schools with environmental improvement programs to enter next year’s ResourceSmart Schools Awards, share their experience and learn about projects that they might be able to apply.

“We’re helping to set them up for their future as citizens and leaders.”