Inspiring the Next Generation: Heart Tree Challenge Launches in Schools

🌿 Inspiring the Next Generation: Heart Tree Challenge Launches in Schools

Bags for Earth & Science Inc (BESI) is excited to launch its inaugural Heart Tree Secondary School Challenge — a three-week program designed to inspire young Australians to champion environmental care and raise funds for vital medical research.

Running from Monday, September 1 to Friday, September 19, 2025, the challenge invites selected public and independent secondary schools to take part in a fun, meaningful, and student-led initiative that blends creativity, exercise, and community spirit.

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💚 A Challenge with Heart

The Heart Tree Challenge is more than just a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of purpose-driven action. Over three weeks, students will take part in three engaging activities:

1. Why I CareStudents share their personal connection to the environment or chronic illness through short stories, poems, or videos.

2. Heart Tree Dress-Up DayEvery Friday, students don their house colours in a show of unity and support.

3. Heart Tree WalkathonStudents hit the school oval to walk laps and raise funds for every lap completed.

Participation is voluntary, and students can take part in one, two, or all three challenges. Each school will compete internally through their four house teams, encouraging teamwork and friendly rivalry.

🌱 Growing Something Meaningful

As a symbol of their commitment, every participating school will receive four Cercis canadensis (Forest Pansy) seedlings — one for each house — to plant on school grounds. Known for their heart-shaped leaves and stunning autumn colours, these trees will stand as living legacies of student action.

The house that raises the most funds at each school will receive BESI cotton tote library bags for every participating student in that house — combining environmental impact with a practical reward. All students will also receive a Certificate of Thanks from BESI for their contribution.

💡 Fundraising with Impact

Students will be encouraged to raise gold-coin donations ($1 or $2) through each challenge:

• Creative entries in the Why I Care Challenge

• Dress-up day donations on Fridays

• Lap sponsorships during the Walkathon

Templates, fundraising kits, and parental permission forms will be provided to make participation easy and school-friendly.

🏫 Designed for Schools

Importantly, the Heart Tree Challenge is designed to be flexible and non-disruptive. Dress-Up Days and the Walkathon can be held during breaks, while the Why I Care entries can be created at home or integrated into classroom activities related to environmental or health topics.

With this pilot year, BESI hopes to lay the foundation for an annual tradition that empowers students to lead with compassion, creativity, and action — all while supporting a future that’s both healthier and more sustainable.

Schools interested in taking part can register here or follow along on our social media for updates.