30-06-2025
Dumfries and Galloway school's environment project earns success at Scotland's Finest Wood Awards
Youngsters at Hardgate Primary transformed a wood and have been learning about the environment in a local forest.
An environment project at Hardgate Primary has earned it success in the Scotland's Finest Wood Awards.
The school's transformation of a nearby wood and learning in a local forest landed it the Crown Estate Scotland Schools' Trophy in the awards' schools and early years category.
A pupil-led eco committee decided they needed to improve the use of Daniel's Wood and enhance its biodiversity.
With the help of Dumfries and Galloway Woodlands, they planted 40 native trees – hazel and hawthorn – which created a windbreak and sitting area which offers increased shelter for their activities, including a fire circle. Work to manage the space, including cutting back canopy is continuing, with parents involved.
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There are have been weekly sessions for school classes and Dumfries and Galloway Outdoor and Woodland Learning has delivered four school and one family outdoor maths session in the woods.
As well as the trophy, the school won £500, a magnifying post from Caledonia Play and a special tree pack from Alba Trees.
They also received a certificate and a commemorative wooden plaque.
Executive director of Scotland's Finest Woods, Jean Nairn, said: 'A love of trees, woodland and forestry in children is vital if we are going to win the fight against climate change. The little roots we see in these awards will hopefully grow strong branches as we all approach the future.'
