As you know, last year our school applied for the Live Here Love Here School Pollinator Garden Grant, funded by DAERA. The aim of the project was to improve school grounds, with a particular focus on enhancing pollinator friendly areas and providing infrastructure for pupils to enjoy outdoor spaces. We were awarded £10,659.05 to spend on our project! This is what we have done so far:
- We planted two new orchards – a pear orchard and plum trees, extending the current apple orchard towards the path.
- We created 2 new outdoor learning spaces: a new outdoor classroom,at the end of the infant playground, and a new outdoor storytelling area. This seating area is made of 30 log seats, planted in a semi-circle shape, with a teacher's story telling chair. We intend to add 2 raised beds, planted with pollinator friendly plants such as lavender and buddleias, and plant shrubs and trees around the logs to create a "butterfly garden".
- In Term 3, we will create of a wildflower meadow in the grass area behind the canteen, next to the Secret Garden.
- Using money from the grant, we also bought plants, seeds and pots to enhance or regenerate different areas of our school grounds, such as our inside courtyards or the front of the school. All classes have been given seeds to plant in our school polytunnel first, then transfer into big pots. These pots will be placed outside our classrooms' doors. We have also purchased birdboxes and insect hotels which the pupils will place in different areas of our school grounds, to encourage biodiversity.
All these projects will greatly benefit our school community. Outdoor learning is key in improving both physical and mental health. Spending time outside also makes the children more settled, and more engaged both inside and outside. Finally, connecting with nature through outdoor learning and gardening activities will help our pupils take pride in their environment and develop a sense of achievement.
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