Exeter students take on major outdoor project to help local nature thrive

Students at St Luke’s Church of England School in Exeter have planted 105 new trees on their school grounds as part of a hands-on project designed to support local wildlife and help young people learn practical environmental skills.

The initiative, supported by the Woodland Trust, saw students put native species including hazel, blackthorn, crab apple, elder, dog rose and rowan into the ground, trees chosen specifically to provide food sources and habitats for birds, insects and small mammals as they grow. 

Teachers say the project not only benefits the environment but gives young people the chance to connect with nature in a meaningful, memorable way.

Much of the work was led by students involved in the school’s Ecology Club, which has been steadily transforming areas of the campus. 

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Last year, the club created a new pollinator patch and worked with staff to reduce mowing in key locations, encouraging wildflowers, bees and butterflies to flourish.

Teachers say these hands-on opportunities are increasingly important as more children grow up with limited access to natural spaces. 

Projects like this, they say, help build environmental responsibility and show students how small local actions contribute to larger ecological benefits.

Headteacher Mr Harrison Littler praised the pupils’ enthusiasm, saying: “It’s brilliant to see the students so engaged with improving our school environment.” 

“Planting the trees was a real team effort, and we’re all looking forward to seeing the space develop and more wildlife visiting over time.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, which St Luke’s is part of, said the project reflects a wider ambition to support communities and empower young people: “Projects like this give students a real sense of ownership and connection with the natural world.” 

“It’s wonderful to see St Luke’s leading the way in creating greener, more wildlife-friendly spaces.”

The newly planted saplings will now form part of a long-term biodiversity plan at the school, with students continuing to take responsibility for tending the area and monitoring how wildlife responds.