Schools can apply for free trees to help boost outdoor learning

It follows a successful pilot which saw 660 trees delivered to schools in Lincolnshire this spring.

Youngsters are getting the chance to connect with nature, and can look forward to planting a copse or hedge, for a wild harvest, or a burst of year round colour.

Trees can create inspiring outdoor learning spaces, with educational as well as environmental benefits.

But if space within school grounds is in short supply, as well as trees, for eligible schools, there’s help with finding somewhere else to plant; protection to help the trees grow and on-line curriculum-linked resources to support lesson plans.

The initiative is being funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and is open to more than 7,000 state funded primary schools in England.

To receive packs of saplings in time for planting this autumn schools need to apply by filling out an application form at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk by September 9.