As part of a broad programme of activity aimed at supporting wildlife and pollinator habitats on site, Shoscombe Primary School in the Somer Valley has planted over 120 new native saplings. 

Thanks to a generous grant from the West of England Combined Authority Community Pollinator Fund, secured by the school's PTA, Friends of Shoscombe School Association, the school is running a series of activities and learning opportunities for students that will both increase their knowledge of pollinators and the role they play in supporting human life, and will create new spaces for pollinators and other wildlife on the school grounds. 

The school has also worked with local tree-planting and habitat renewal organisation Co-Forest to create the new hedge, with the saplings, guards and posts provided as a gift to the school. 

Children, parents and teachers came together over the weekend to plant the trees, creating a new wildlife-friendly hedge that will not only provide habitat and sustenance for local wildlife, but also offer invaluable learning opportunities for the children. 

Alongside the creation of the hedge, Shoscombe Primary School has used its funding to launch a new gardening club, empowering students to develop green thumbs and cultivate a deeper understanding of horticulture.

Additionally, a new kitchen garden is being established, providing children with hands-on experience in growing their own produce and connecting with the food they eat. 

Furthermore, the school is working with students, parents and community groups and experts to create inviting spaces for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife, supporting biodiversity and creating a thriving ecosystem within the school grounds.

Headteacher Tania Rorison expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating "At Shoscombe Primary we believe in fostering a deep connection with nature and instilling a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

"This project enhances our school grounds and provides a living classroom environment in which children can observe, learn and appreciate nature. We're thrilled to see the school community enthusiastic about creating positive change for our environment." 

This initiative is part of an ongoing commitment that Shoscombe Primary has to environmental education and sustainability. For more information about the school please visit https://www.shoscombeprimary.co.uk/.