The program, provided by MidWaste, gave students the tools and ideas to take practical steps to avoid food waste and lead change in their homes.

GHS teacher, Rob Seale said the resources were built into the mandatory Tech Food and Fibre course and the students received a kit with a shopping list, menu planner and action cards to help make the most of the food their families buy.

"The students were learning about a range of agricultural processes including planting and growing vegetables, soil health and composting. With the support of MidWaste, we also looked at reducing food waste, its impact on the household budget, the community, and ultimately the environment," Mr Seale said. To celebrate their successful completion of the program, the students took part in a beeswax wrap workshop run by local bee keeper, Chelsea Hands on December 13.

Mr Seale said the students enjoyed learning how to make their own plastic-free food wraps, using fabric and melted bees wax, to help keep their leftovers fresh.

"It's wonderful to have motivated and exciting community members like Chelsea come to speak with our students. The kids are really engaged with sustainability and motivated to make changes at school and at home."

MidWaste projects officer, Wendy Grant said families can save up to $4000 a year by making easy changes to the way they shop, serve and store food.

"One in five shopping bags of food ends up in the bin, and now is a great time to sign up and learn how to reduce food waste and keep more money in your pocket.

"Schools can also sign up now to take part in the free Food Smart Families program in early 2020," Ms Grant said.

Families can join the free Food Smart program at www.midwaste.org.au/food-smart

Schools can register their interest at www.surveymonkey.com/r/FSFamilies

This project is a NSW Government Waste Less Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy.

For more information visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.nsw.gov.au