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 JCDecaux, 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.
Firbeck Academy is a warm and welcoming one-form entry primary school in Wollaton, Nottingham, catering for children from nursery through to Year 6. Built on its simple yet powerful values of “Work Hard, Be Kind,” the school creates a positive and supportive environment where every child is encouraged to thrive.
The dedicated staff team works closely together to ensure pupils are happy, safe and engaged in a rich, challenging curriculum that opens doors to lifelong opportunities. Alongside academic achievement, Firbeck Academy places strong emphasis on pupils’ social, moral, spiritual and cultural development, helping to prepare them for life beyond the classroom.
With a strong sense of community and a commitment to high-quality education for all, Firbeck Academy is a place where children are supported to grow in confidence, develop important values and achieve their full potential.
A whole new section of mixed woodland was planted in the corner of the field at Firbeck Academy to expand their forest school area. Within this, a circle of 6 trees was planted with a clearing inside to form a future seating area, providing a natural space for outdoor learning and education.
Alice is an experienced primary school teacher and forest school leader with a passion for getting children out into forests and learning about them.
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.
