The Trees for Schools project brings climate-resilient tree planting and high-quality outdoor learning directly into school grounds across the UK. Thanks to the support of LRG, pupils at a local primary school have taken part in a planting workshop that will leave a legacy on their school grounds for decades to come. In total, LRG has now supported tree planting in 3 schools, helping to expand green space, provide cleaner air in playgrounds, improve biodiversity and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. This project is delivered in partnership with GreenTheUK and the Royal Forestry Society (RFS).
Every Trees for Schools workshop is designed specifically for the needs of each school. Before planting begins, the Royal Forestry Society (RFS) Education Officers meet with teachers to understand the school’s goals, existing green space, soil and site conditions, and long-term plans for the grounds. This ensures that the chosen species are well-suited to the location, resilient to future climate pressures and valuable as a learning resource. The planting layout is mapped in advance, creating a purposeful design that will support wildlife, shade, shelter, outdoor education and reduce particulate air pollution.
On the day of planting, pupils learn directly from experienced Education Officers, who tailor sessions to the children’s age and interests. Activities may include exploring seasonal changes, understanding seeds and life cycles, identifying trees and animals, studying food chains and predators, and learning how forests help tackle climate change. The programme works with – and extends beyond – the curriculum, improving access to nature for children who may have limited opportunities to spend time outdoors. In urban areas especially, these workshops help break down barriers to nature connection and foster curiosity, confidence and wellbeing.
Through this project, young people learn why trees matter: their role in supporting local wildlife, improving air quality, capturing carbon and creating resilient habitats. At the same time, schools benefit from enhanced green spaces that support outdoor learning and provide calming, restorative environments for pupils and staff. National surveys show that over three-quarters of children want more time in nature, yet many families face accessibility barriers. With public support growing for a legal right to live within 15 minutes of nature, initiatives like Trees for Schools are more important than ever.
By supporting this programme with RFS and GreenTheUK, LRG is helping to equip children with environmental understanding while transforming school grounds into nature-rich places for communities to enjoy.
Bemrose School in Derby is home to nearly 1,500 students from ages 3 to 19, a community in of itself. Bemrose School's aim is to raise the aspirations of our pupils, opening their minds to a world of possibilities through a broad education and with wellbeing support. Pupils are encouraged to build their character and to grow their responsability as they progress through the school.
In the Forest School and outdoor learning area, a variety of trees were planted to expand a young, developing woodland. Additional trees were planted to form a hedge along a perimeter fence, enhancing privacy from neighbouring gardens. More trees were also added around the school fire pit, creating a cozier, more wooded atmosphere while providing valuable habitat for local wildlife.
Jodi began her career in outdoor education as an Education Manager at Conkers. She also has 14 years’ experience as a Learning Mentor in an inner-city school. Supporting children with a wide range of needs including EAL, SEND, SEMH and behavioural needs. She says: “I have used the great outdoors to support these children in overcoming barriers to learning and I am passionate about engaging children of all ages and from all walks of life with nature”.
Jemma has been a primary school teacher for 14 years and worked in environmental education for 6 years prior to that. She has a degree in Ecology and a lifelong interest in the natural world. She says: “I love seeing children enthused about the living things they find when exploring outdoors. That sense of wonder and curiosity is magical! I firmly believe that encouraging widespread learning about the species and habitats we share the world with is vital to conserving them and managing them wisely. As an experienced teacher, I also know that learning outdoors benefits children directly, with great potential to boost interest, enjoyment and self-esteem.”
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.
