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 Simple Life Homes, 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.
South End Junior School believes that children should not only reach their best academically, but also develop a thirst for knowledge and a love of learning. From outdoor lessons, to enriching events with special guests and educators, South End Junior School provides numerous opportunities for pupils to learn in a way that suits them best. Pupils from ages 7 to 11 are taught the six shared values: Respect, Courage, Aspiration, Perseverance, Independence, and Pride, to bolster their learning and help them grow as members of the community.
Two mixed-species hedges were established: one along the fencing at the school entrance, and another to define an area of the field that is being developed into a nature space. These hedges were planted to provide increased privacy, create valuable wildlife habitat and enhance the overall appearance of the grounds.
The variety of species included will offer food and shelter for birds, insects, and small mammals, while also contributing to seasonal interest through flowers, foliage and berries. As the hedges mature, they will play an important role in supporting biodiversity and enriching the school’s outdoor learning environment.
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.
