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 Simple Life Homes, 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, Simple Life Homes has now supported tree planting in 4 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, Simple Life Homes is helping to equip children with environmental understanding while transforming school grounds into nature-rich places for communities to enjoy.
William Shrewsbury Primary School leans into the environmental theme with their emblem of an acorn, representing their vision for students: ensuring their children receive the care and nurture to grow into fully rounded individuals. With students from age 3-11, they learn about the school's five golden rules to enable the children to develop strong roots as they grow: We Are Honest, We Show Respect, We Always Do Our Best, We Are Helpful, and We Are Kind And Gentle.
A mixed-species hedge was planted along the fence marking the boundary of the Forest School area, creating a sense of separation from the playing field and making the space feel more immersed in nature. This enhancement will benefit students’ Forest School experience while also providing increased habitat for local wildlife. Additional trees were planted within the Forest School area to develop a more wooded environment.
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.
