Visitors to Altona Centennial Park are in for a visual treat as students from École Parkside School have turned the space into a winter wonderland with their stunning snow sculptures.
Under the guidance of physical education teacher Jesse Heppner, the students have combined creativity, teamwork, and physical effort to produce an array of intricate designs as part of their winter activities curriculum.
Using large wooden box forms, the students created compacted snow blocks as the foundation for their sculptures.
“The wooden box forms allowed us to produce about seven blocks per hour,” Heppner explained. “This year, with enrollment up to 195 students, we produced around 70 blocks over two and a half days, plus a few extras for solo projects or a potential sculpture club.”
Before beginning their projects, students participated in a class where they reviewed past sculptures, learned essential snow sculpting techniques, and developed a game plan for their own creations.
Once in their teams, they collaborated to bring their ideas to life, sometimes adapting to unexpected challenges.
“A lot of our sculptors had to pivot and create something different from their original plan,” Heppner noted. “That’s part of the learning experience—problem-solving and working with what you have.”
The sculptures, lined up along the main park trail, take visitors past the stage and water park area, showcasing a diverse range of artistic interpretations. Students sculpted everything from lifelike animals and vehicles to mythical creatures, cartoon characters, and even food items.
“We teach them how to expand the snow to make sculptures appear larger than the four-foot blocks they start with,” said Heppner.
Beyond the artistic aspect, the project instills valuable life lessons.
“They learn hard work, teamwork, and how to execute a vision,” Heppner emphasized. “Each team must coordinate ideas and techniques to complete their sculpture, which requires compromise and communication. They get so engrossed in their work that they don’t even realize the physical benefits—they’re moving, lifting, and sculpting, all the while staying active.”
The sculpting process took place over several phases. After planning their designs and gathering tools, students spent their regular gym class periods working on their creations. With three one-hour sessions per week, they had ample time to refine their work. Teachers across the school also supported the initiative, offering additional time for students to perfect their sculptures. The goal was to have all pieces completed by Jan. 31, ensuring a full display for the community to enjoy.
For those who didn’t get a chance to participate initially, a few extra blocks near the playground remain available for additional sculpting.
“It’s always great to see more kids give it a try,” Heppner said.
