The move is part of a nationwide ‘orchard’ programme with 1,500 apple and pear trees and 1,900 strawberry patches sent to 500 schools up and down the country.
Stems from the same ‘mother’ trees growing apples or pears at a nursery in Kent have been planted at St Augustine’s CE High School, St Robert Southwell Catholic Primary School, St Robert Southwell Primary School, Mitchell Brook Primary School, Saint Joseph’s Infant School, Chalkhill Primary School, Phoenix Arch School and Alperton Community School.
The ‘orchard’ programme, aimed at connecting children with nature, has been created by Veolia energy and waste management company .
“We are building a more sustainable future,” Veolia’s municipal managing director Pascal Hauret said. “Our project is increasing biodiversity and inspiring positive practices in young people.’’
The schools are supplied with soil conditioner and topsoil to prevent carbon being released into the atmosphere. Planting sessions show pupils how to care for their orchard and how it benefits their school — and gives them fresh, locally-grown fruit.
