In a previous blog, ( https://michael-faraday.co.uk/2022/04/22/glorious-gardens/) we have shared our plans to develop our gardens, to increase the biodiversity at our school. Biodiversity projects in school grounds can contribute to the health and wellbeing of children and it encourages an active interest in the outdoor world. Biodiversity and sustainability are closely interconnected.
Our wildlife pond
Eco Piles
As part of this project, we have created a number of log piles, also known as eco piles, in the gardens. Eco piles are good for the environment, because they are a perfect hiding places for insects, providing a convenient buffet for frog, birds, and hedgehogs too!
Thousands of plants
Walworth Gardens have now planted a total of roughly 1400 plants, with 29 different species of trees… and with more to come! We are very excited to see all these trees and plants growing.
Butterflies
Our aim is to attract more wildlife. The tree/bush in the photo above is a ‘Prunus Spinosa’ (common name is Blackthorn or Sloe). The Brown and/or Black Hairstreak butterfly will only lay its eggs on this specimen. The emerging caterpillars then feast on the leaves. We have a few of these planted around in our gardens and we are all looking out for the Brown and/or Black Hairstreak butterflies!
Look after nature, if we want nature to look after us
We have been so fortunate to have Oli from Walworth Gardens to be our project manager. As part of the project, he is giving up so much of his time to do workshops with the parents, staff and children, which we really appreciate.
The orchard
Gardening club
The children are enjoying growing their own herbs and vegetables.
Thank you
We are ever so grateful to Oli and Walworth Gardens for the work they are doing at our school and the improvements they are making to our gardens.
Michael Faraday 