03 September 2026
Upper Swan Primary School has two impressive new murals as part of a project to raise awareness about the critically endangered western swamp tortoise.
In addition to the mural, the students also made models, posters and magnets.
Year 5 and 6 students at the school worked with artists in residents on the artwork to celebrate the tortoise, whose natural habitat is located close to the school.
Further artworks created included Lego habitat models, conservation posters, and fridge magnets.
As part of the project, students learnt about the tortoise, sustainability and the local environment, helping to deepen their understanding of the community they live in.
Upper Swan Primary School visual arts specialist teacher Louise Cepo said it gave students the chance to develop their visual art skills, while gaining an understanding of the role of artists in communicating important social and environmental messages.
"These experiences strengthened students' understanding of local ecosystems, encouraged respect for the natural environment, and highlighted the importance of community involvement and shared responsibility in conservation and sustainability," she said.
"Ultimately, the project enabled students to see themselves as active citizens who can positively influence their community and environment.
"It combined art, collaboration, education, advocacy, and fundraising that helped students gain confidence, hope, and optimism that collective action can contribute to protecting an endangered species and create positive environmental change.
"This project fostered not only a love and appreciation for the arts but environmental knowledge and empathy, leadership, and a lasting belief that individual and collective actions can make a meaningful difference."
Ms Cepo said the engagement with the broader community provided students with authentic learning experiences that connect classroom learning to real-world issues.
"These interactions enriched the curriculum by providing expert knowledge and authentic perspectives, making learning more meaningful and relevant," she said.
"Students demonstrated increased engagement and motivation as they recognised the practical application of their learning, they realised how close to our school the nature reserve was and the positive impact that individuals and community groups can have on environmental conservation.
"The project also strengthened students' understanding of active citizenship by highlighting that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility."
Ms Cepo said she was proud of the support and enthusiasm shown by the entire school community.
"Overall, the project had a significant educational and emotional impact on both students and staff, reinforcing the value of creative learning experiences that empower young people to make meaningful contributions to wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship," she said.
The collaborative project culminated in an art show where the stunning works were displayed. Funds were raised to support to the conservation group Friends of the Western Swamp Tortoise.