Local children dig deep to create outdoor classroom [Archived]

The project at North Ormesby Primary Academy in Middlesbrough came to life thanks to a partnership with our supply chain partner Travis Perkins Managed Services. 

The school garden has been transformed with raised wooden planters, fruit trees and an area for storytelling. 

Thirteen’s environmental specialist John Woods said: “The school came to us because they were keen to create a space to grow food and allow the children to observe the wildlife and connect with nature.

“The project is all about teaching children why we must do things that help the environment and how to grow nutritious fresh produce, which in turn reduces our carbon footprint.

“As we create habitats for wildlife, the children can learn why it’s so important that we increase biodiversity.

“Spending time outdoors is an easy way to boost good mental health and wellbeing.

“This is a really exciting project, which we’ve made a reality, with Travis Perkins donating £1,000 of materials as part of their work to add real social value into the community, with an additional £1,000 granted by the school.”

Nicola Todd, regional director at Travis Perkins added: “It is a pleasure to see the children so engaged and excited identifying different species, and creating the habitats in the plant beds.

“Supporting the school garden is a great example of our purpose to build better communities and enrich lives.”

The project is one of a range of initiatives being delivered by Thirteen to improve the environment and support communities to live more sustainably.

Thirteen launched its net zero campaign – Take Control, to support its ambitions to reduce its carbon footprint and protect the planet.