RAPS Outdoor Nature Area Success.
Open spaces at Ramsgate Arts Primary are now a little haven for nature thanks to the Royal Horticultural Society.
A £10,000 grant has enabled the school to further its ‘go green’ sustainability ethos with the creation of a planted outdoor area.
A variety of plants, shrubs and trees were installed by the school’s grounds care team aided by RAPS children.
The idea is to re-establish and encourage wildlife such as bees as well as enhancing open spaces for children, staff and visitors.
As well as the garden, a further eight willow trees have been planted on the grassy bank between the hard play area and the school fields.
Head of School Nick Budge said: “This project is so popular with our children, who are keen to watch how our nature centre develops – our pupil-led Eco Team will oversee the care and maintenance of the plants.
“The generosity of the RHS enabled us to get work underway at the end of the summer term with a planting project – when children returned to school in September they were wowed at how much the area had grown during the holidays.
“Respect for our environment is a key message at RAPS and our children are further embracing this by caring and tending for the planted area. As well as an important learning resource, it is a restful and peaceful area of greenery at our busy school.”
The Royal Horticultural Society says: “We believe that nurturing a passion for plants and our natural world does wonders for children and young people.
“It can improve their physical and mental wellbeing, understanding of the environment and sustainability, confidence and self-esteem, teamwork and communication skills, literacy and numeracy skills. It also enriches the school curriculum from science and maths, to art and literacy.”
The RHS was founded in 1804 to inspire passion and excellence in horticulture.
The society adds: “We want to enrich everyone's life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place. To achieve our aim we undertake scientific research; provide education, training and horticultural advice; support community horticulture projects; and share our renowned gardens and shows with the public.”
To find out more about the society’s school gardening programme, go online to www. schoolgardening.rhs.org.uk
Ramsgate Arts Primary School is part of the Viking Academy Trust with Upton Junior School and Chilton Primary School.
*For more information, contact Head of School Nick Budge on 01843 582847