A special tree planting event has been held at Peasedown St John Primary School to bring the community together and to kick start the season of Spring.
Over 50 trees were planted on school grounds last week thanks to a £500 grant provided by local Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES) councillor Gavin Heathcote as part of his Ward Councillor’s Empowerment Fund.
Cllr Heathcote (Independent, Peasedown) said: “Trees are one of the best solutions to our climate emergency. They improve poor air quality, alleviate the risk of flooding, lock up carbon, boost our wellbeing – making us feel healthier and happier, and create habitats for wildlife.
“These new trees planted within the grounds of Peasedown St John Primary School look fantastic. Thanks to the pupils, staff and volunteers who helped plant them – particularly during those cold, wet mornings we’re having. Your efforts are very much appreciated!”
The trees were provided by More Trees for B&NES, a local charity established over 15 years ago that works with local businesses, organisations and schools to plant trees around the district.
Director Richard Higgs said: “It’s been a joy to work with Peasedown Primary School on this project. Our organisation’s vision is to help create dynamic and diverse tree-rich landscapes that regenerate the environment, our communities and bring people together.
“As a small local charity, we’ve already planted 16,000 trees across B&NES since we started our tree planting mission in 2008. We’re delighted to now be able to add these 50 additional trees to the list.”
Peasedown Primary School also has a Forest School initiative as part of its curriculum. Children are able to learn outside and take part in a range of specifically planned activities such as constructing dens, starting fires and cooking outdoors.
They also learn about environmental conservation, bug hunting and using tools safely.
School headteacher, Ruth Noall, added: “We want to give our pupils as many opportunities as possible to play outside and explore the great outdoors.Creative outdoor play allows children to develop self-confidence, independence and self-esteem.
“They also become aware of limits, boundaries and challenge in their play. When children are used to playing outdoors, they are more likely to try new activities too.”
Last week’s tree planting event at the school, which was led by the school’s nurture leader Sarah Buckle, is part of the village’s wider efforts to become one of the greenest in the Southwest of England.
The Chair of B&NES Council and local Councillor, Cllr Karen Walker (Independent, Peasedown) also attended the event. She said: “We’re determined to ‘do our bit’ here in Peasedown St John to help the council meet its tree planting target.
“Since 2021, cllr Gavin Heathcote and I have either planted or distributed over 500 trees here in the village. These new school trees are part of B&NES Council’s overall tree strategy to see 100,000 trees planted across the district.”
For more information about Peasedown St John Primary School visit their website www.psjprimary.co.uk and follow them on Facebook at @psjprimary