OVO Foundation Nature Prize
Schools can win the cash to implement a community nature project. Schools from disadvantaged areas with high pupil premium are particularly encouraged to apply.
Applications opening 30 Novmeber 2023.
Our Lady of Peace Primary School, Glasgow
Students lead the way with inclusive gardening club
Our Lady of Peace Primary School’s idea to set up an inclusive gardening club came directly from some of their primary seven pupils. After coming up with the idea, they got staff on board by making a presentation on why they wanted the club, what they would grow, and how they would organise it.
The school had already been working with a local company called Sowing Seeds, who develop outdoor spaces, to improve their outdoor environment, but lacked funding to move onto the next stage of the project. Many students from the school do not have regular access to a safe, outdoor space so the school is aiming to create as many opportunities for them to interact with nature as possible.
The students leading the application requested money for soil, seeds and plants along with age-appropriate gardening tools. They also planned to work with local park rangers, as well as parents and community members with a keen interest in gardening, for advice and support.
Students have also taken full ownership of the project; rather than being led by teachers, it is the primary seven students who are in charge. They have learnt to successfully lead the younger students, showing them how to grow different types of plants and flowers.
“This has given the chance for pupils to get in touch with nature and get them excited and motivated about being outdoors. The club has been greatly successful with Primary 7 pupils leading younger pupils to plant, grow and maintain our outdoor spaces.”
Ms McDonald, Headteacher
Leading younger students as part of the gardening club has clearly raised students’ self-esteem, says headteacher Ms. McDonald. The activities and project have been carefully recorded on the whole school achievements database which allows for the participating children to see a record of the great work they’re doing and the impact they’re having.
Now the students have been able to buy gardening equipment and the gardening club is in full swing, the school is seeing increased biodiversity around the site- including the arrival of a few moles! Being outside is something the students are excited about, and all of the gardening club members take pride in maintaining the school’s green spaces.
The newly formed gardening club was even recognised in the school’s latest inspection. It was highlighted as a valuable initiative that promotes teamwork and partnership across the school and other agencies, showing how green projects like this one can have multiple co-benefits.
The impacts of the gardening club can already be felt and seen by the school and its wider community, and staff and students are excited to keep it going and build on its legacy.
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