By Cheet-Zen Liang 

A Creative Lesson on Environmental Protection 

On December 7, 2024, Tzu Chi Academy Perth marked its annual graduation ceremony with a heartfelt drama titled "What Has Happened to Our Home?" Performed by three parents dressed as sea creatures, the play vividly depicted the impact of human behavior on the environment, turning an important lesson into an engaging performance for the children. 

At this year's graduation ceremony, parents took center stage—writing, directing, and performing a drama that helped children understand how human actions affect the environment and animal life. | Photo: Shin Hui Choong | Australia | 2024/12/07 

Parents’ Efforts to Inspire Change 

The play, scripted and performed by parents, brought the issue of environmental pollution to life through the eyes of animals. Dressed as a turtle, a crab, and a bird, they depicted the stark contrast between a clean, thriving beach and one disrupted by litter left behind by careless beachgoers. 

As pollution spread, the animals struggled to survive, illustrating the real-life consequences of human actions. Eventually, a group of volunteers arrived to clean the beach, restoring the animals' home and reinforcing the importance of environmental responsibility. The performance resonated deeply with both children and parents, serving as a powerful reminder that small actions can have a lasting impact. 

LEFT: The play begins with a turtle, a crab, and a bird enjoying the pristine beach and clear ocean. RIGHT: After a picnic, two teenagers leave their trash behind. A storm soon scatters the litter, polluting the sea and harming marine life. | Photos: Shin Hui Choong | Australia | 2024/12/07 

A School Focused on Moral Education 

For 24 years, Tzu Chi Academy Perth has been dedicated to nurturing not just language skills, but also character and values in children aged 4 to 12. 

With 54 students attending weekly three-hour classes, the academy completed 15 sessions this year. Its curriculum integrates lessons on filial piety and environmental stewardship, encouraging students to apply these values in their daily lives. Teachers also guided students to pick up litter during recess, reinforcing environmental responsibility through hands-on practice. 

“The high level of parental involvement this year has made the school environment even more joyful,” Principal Lee noted. Parents took turns telling stories during recess, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere while helping to maintain order. 

Principal Remy Lee explains that, due to limited class time, the school prioritizes moral education, focusing on filial piety and environmental protection. "This year’s joyful atmosphere is thanks to strong parental involvement," she shared. | Photo: Shin Hui Choong | Australia | 2024/12/07

Language, Culture, and Community 

Among the students were ten-year-old Eddie Yuan and seven-year-old Eva Yuan, siblings who seamlessly navigated between English and Chinese. During the ceremony, they confidently recited Jing Si Aphorisms and Hundred Words of Family Instructions, demonstrating their connection to both their heritage and the school’s teachings. 

Ten-year-old Eddie Yuan and seven-year-old Eva Yuan, fluent in both Chinese and English, recite Jing Si Aphorisms and Hundred Words of Family Instructions with their classmates during the ceremony. | Photo: Shin Hui Choong | Australia | 2024/12/07

For many parents, the school’s approach to education has been transformative. Cindy Lee, originally from Taiwan, shared how her son Charlie initially resisted learning Chinese but gradually became more engaged through the school’s interactive activities. “Tzu Chi’s approach makes learning fun and meaningful. I’m grateful my child has this opportunity,” she said. 

Looking Ahead 

As the school continues to evolve, Principal Lee, who has served for two decades, emphasized the importance of adapting teaching methods to suit new generations. She expressed gratitude for the parents' enthusiasm in storytelling and drama performances, which have brought vibrancy to the school community. 

By fostering an environment where education extends beyond textbooks, Tzu Chi Academy Perth continues to shape young minds with values of compassion, responsibility, and cultural appreciation.