This report highlights the Trees for Schools initiative, through which climate-resilient trees have been planted at a local primary school with the generous support of Atos, alongside additional schools that have benefited from their wider commitment to the project.
Each Trees for Schools workshop is carefully designed around the individual needs of the school. Before planting takes place, a consultation is carried out with staff to understand the site, the pupils’ age range, and how much green space is available. This allows us to select appropriate tree species, plan the layout of the planting, and ensure the trees will become a meaningful and long-lasting resource for both learning and the wider school community.
The programme has a strong social impact focus, prioritising schools where a higher proportion of pupils are eligible for Free School Meals, helping to ensure that access to high-quality green learning spaces and environmental education is available to those who may benefit most.
Our Education Officers lead hands-on sessions where children learn how to plant and care for trees, with activities adapted to suit different year groups. Pupils explore topics such as seasonal change, plant life cycles, forest ecosystems, animal identification, food chains and the impact of climate change. By combining practical outdoor learning with curriculum-linked themes, the project strengthens children’s connection to nature, particularly in urban environments where access to green space can be limited.
Beyond environmental education, Trees for Schools helps create greener, healthier school grounds that support wellbeing, biodiversity and climate resilience. It encourages environmental stewardship from an early age, builds practical life skills in planting and care and contributes positively to local ecosystems.
Ravensworth Terrace Primary School is a vibrant and inclusive school where children are enthusiastic, motivated and inspired to achieve their full potential. With children at the heart of every decision, the school is committed to ensuring pupils are happy, confident and supported with learning experiences that meet their needs now and in the future.
As a Rights Respecting School, Ravensworth Terrace promotes values of respect, teamwork, independence, perseverance and kindness, helping pupils develop strong character alongside a love of learning. A rich and engaging curriculum, combined with exciting opportunities - particularly in outdoor and adventurous play - encourages curiosity, creativity and high aspirations.
Proud of its close partnerships with families, the local community and staff team, the school works together to provide a well-rounded education where every child’s talents are nurtured. Ravensworth Terrace Primary School is a place where children build lasting memories of achievement, friendship and enjoyment, while developing the skills they need to thrive.
A mixed-species hedge was planted at the bottom of a slope where water naturally collects. Willow was included within the planting to help cope with the wet soil conditions, while also contributing to improved drainage and helping to reduce waterlogging in the area. The hedge also acts as a natural screen, helping to enclose and enhance the Forest School space.
Jessica is a qualified primary school teacher and a former People and Wildlife Officer at Northumberland Wildlife Trust. She says: “I find it so rewarding to see how much knowledge children absorb during a day out in a woodland, as well as how much they enjoy it! Growing up in Northumberland I was lucky enough to go on regular family walks to woodlands, where I would take part in treasure hunts, build dens, look for wildlife and make up stories. Many children now don’t get so many opportunities to explore woodlands, so I love showing school groups how much fun they can be!”
As a GreenTheUK partner, you support projects that are in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
Sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, halt and reverse land degradation, halt biodiversity loss.
