The Eco Group at Broomlands Primary in Kelso have started working towards something special.
With the support and encouragement of teachers Kerri Scott (P7) and Elaine Murray (P5), they are looking to achieve a coveted John Muir Award for the school.
Having learned about the naturalist in the classroom, the Group decided they wanted to rewild part of their school grounds and create a space where nature could thrive. They came up with the idea of creating a sensory garden which would not only be good for nature and the environment but would also provide a quiet place of retreat for young people, staff and visitors.
They had already created raised beds and installed a poly-tunnel, enabling them to grow their own plants and vegetables, but felt that their new project would strengthen their award submission even further.
It would also give them a real focus and the opportunity of creating something that would not only enhance the environment but would also provide them with some excellent learning opportunities.
Once they had decided on the details of their project, they went about securing sponsorship, choosing and selecting the trees for the garden and then finally getting involved in the planting process.
Angus Haig, P5, Eco Group member
“Our first job was to help lift the trees from the back of the van over to the garden. They weren’t too heavy but were a little bit awkward to get out of the pot. After that we dug holes for them which was quite easy, except for one hole where we actually dug down to playground from the old school.
“Next we put the trees into the holes and made sure they were standing up straight before using our spades to put lots of soil in to fill in the rest of the hole. We used our wellies to help pack the soil down and make sure the trees were safe and secure.
“Our next step was to put woodchips down around them which helps them to stand up and looks great. Finally, we put water and fertiliser on the trees to feed them and give them a good start.
“I really enjoyed the morning, particularly digging the holes, even though it was hard work. Overall we planted apple, plum, pear, cherry, damson and rowan trees and it will be great if our school kitchen can use the fruit in puddings or to bake with. We’ve also got lots of plans for our new poly-tunnel which we want to use to grow seeds for flowers and vegetables.”
Councillor Carol Hamilton, Executive Member for Children and Young People
“Many congratulations to the Eco Group on everything they have achieved so far. I have no doubt they will grow some fantastic produce in their poly tunnel and that their sensory garden will be something that will be appreciated by everyone who visits. I wish them all the very best with their John Muir Award submission and look forward to hearing how they get on in due course.”
The Eco Group at Broomlands is now busy looking forward to developing their garden even further and sharing it with the wider community. They will continue working toward their John Muir Award over the next few months and all being well, hope to have good news to share about this having been achieved in June.
More information
- images are available from our Flickr page
- sponsorship was secured from Inverroy Crisis Management and Ekles Groundworks and Landscaping, both of whom have links to the school through the young people
- more information about the Award is available on the John Muir Trust website