On Thursday 26th March 28 pupils from different year groups at Seaside primary school rolled up their sleeves and got involved in planting an orchard on their own school grounds. They set to work digging holes and looking for worms and gold (finding more worms than gold).
Together, they planted 20 fruit trees including a variety of apple and pear, cherry and plum trees. These trees form just one part of the larger planting plan being funded by Tree Action, thanks to a successful crowdfunding campaign supported by parents and the Aviva Community Fund.
In total, more than 50 trees will be planted, with a further 10 woodland trees going in before mid-April and the remaining 20 scheduled for next season, funded through a lottery grant.
Tree Action Forest School teacher Gabi Osborne led the fruit tree planting for students supported by TreeAction UK Founder and Director Ricky Purnell. Teachers including Helen Murphy also supported the students with the planting, and there was a guest appearance by Tom Rutland MP for East Worthing and Shoreham who planted two fruit trees with just a little help from some of the students. He did very well given that he revealed he lives in flat with no garden but said he might consider a garden flat for his next move after this experience.
MP Tom Rutland planting a tree with pupils from Seaside Primary School
Once the trees were in the ground, pupils helped add mulch around their bases, while each tree received a generous 25 litres of water to help them settle into their new home. Stakes, ties and rabbit guards will be added to protect the young trees, and, with a nearby football pitch in mind, Tree Action has also funded weldmesh guards for those closest to the field.
Looking ahead, pupils will be encouraged to name and care for their trees, supported by a maintenance plan provided by Tree Action. There are also plans to organise volunteers to help water the trees over the summer holidays, ensuring they continue to thrive through their first crucial season.