Page 9 - V2 2025 Autumn 01 English Draft

Orchards: Hands- “I have really enjoyed being

On Learning for a outside and helping with the
garden. Planting the trees was my
Healthier Planet favourite part and I want to plant
some at home next to my new
greenhouse.”
Billy, St Mary’s RC Primary

School learner

Orchard trees help combat climate change by absorbing carbon
dioxide and releasing oxygen. They boost biodiversity by
providing habitats for pollinators, birds, and small animals. In
schools and communities, they also improve air quality, cool the Would your school benefit from its own orchard? Register your
environment, and protect soil health, all with minimal upkeep interest to receive a free Orchard Package, including support
once established. from Keep Wales Tidy to design and plant your green space. Plus,
the Eco-Schools Team will deliver a special interactive workshop
designed to help pupils understand the importance of native trees
As St Mary’s RC Primary School in Blaenau Gwent discovered, and protecting habitats for biodiversity.
orchards, as well as bringing environmental benefits, can serve
as living classrooms. Learners explored science through plant life
cycles and pollination, used maths to measure growth and yields, We only have a small number of packs available, and the deadline
and enhanced their literacy and art through observation and to apply is 19 September. Apply today!
creative projects. Their orchard offers hands-on, cross-curricular
learning all year round. As their trees mature and begin to fruit,
they will offer real-life opportunities to learn about nutrition,
cooking, and food origins. Harvesting and preparing fruit teaches
teamwork, responsibility, and practical life skills, and can even
support school meals or community sharing.