We have recently delivered planters to St Boniface RC Primary and Garratt Park School in Wandsworth, kindly paid for and donated by Wandsworth Council.
The planters, as well as soil and plants were very well received, with both staff, parents and children on site to see them safely delivered. Upon arrival, we worked with the staff to place the planters in various locations around the schools. Planters were placed alongside buildings and playgrounds, creating a more natural edge, with climbers and trellises affixed. Others will be put to good use for gardening clubs and classes, teaching the children about nature, life cycles, food chains and growing their own produce.
Particular species of plants were discussed with the school staff, ensuring what we included would be of the greatest use and benefit. Fruits and herbs were a popular choice; such as mint, strawberries, rosemary and thyme, which the students would be able to pick and enjoy.
Staff involved at both schools really emphasised the importance of the children's involvement and ownership. To encourage the children to plant, water and take care of the planters, to observe the processes at work, hopefully sparking an interest in sustainability, seasonality and the importance of nature in their later lives.
Speaking to several members of the staff, various sources of funding have been put on hold due to Covid-19, so this kind gesture from the Wandsworth Council will go a long way.
Since the deliveries, we've had some really positive reviews back from the schools:
"Garratt Park School has embarked on an environmentally green collaboration project with Meristem Design.
The school made some inquiries with Wandsworth Council and were put in touch with George Clayden (project and maintenance manager Meristem Design), who kindly offered to make ten planters for the school and donated some soil and plants to get us started.
He also offered practical advice and guidance on where the planters would be best placed around the school, with the aim of introducing a green calmness and mindfulness to the school’s outdoor space.
George was really enthusiastic about the project and offered advice on how the project could be developed in the future with a living wall and potentially more planters.
At a testing and difficult time for many, the planter’s project has given the students a renewed focus and something to look forward to"
"Meristem design have helped us with ideas, execution and delivery of lovely wooden planters, soil and plants to re-energise our School."
It was a pleasure working with the schools. We look forward to working both with Wandsworth council and other boroughs to bring some much needed nature to other schools around the capital.
