CHILDREN returning to a Downend primary school in September will not just be learning indoors.
The allotment at Stanbridge Primary School is being used as an outdoor classroom, where pupils can learn hands-on about the life cycle of plants, develop respect for nature and responsibility for the environment.
It has been named Stanley’s Patch following a competition run by the school’s class ambassadors.
Started at the beginning of the year, the allotment had already produced its first fruit and vegetables before the summer holidays.
The school has set up the allotment to encourage teamwork and communication among pupils to plan and grow their plants, learning to problem-solve, make decisions and look after the shared space, getting their hands dirty, digging, planting, and tending to crops.
School gardener Simon Evans said: “It was a privilege to be asked to help set up and run a new allotment at Stanbridge Primary School.
“So far, the children have been able to sow, plant and grow onions, garlic, radishes, carrots, potatoes, strawberries and herbs, among other things.
“My priority this year is to engage as many children as possible with practical gardening activities such as seed sowing, weeding, transplanting, digging, and most importantly, eating their produce!
“Every group that comes to Stanley’s Patch will always leave having sampled something they are growing.
“Working on the allotment will teach the children about how to work with and respect their environment, think about where our food comes from, how to produce it responsibly and encourage them to try eating new things – we already have some radish converts!
“Additionally, being outdoors and engaged in gardening is a proven boost for mental and physical health and well-being, and gives children a break from the classroom without a break in their learning.”