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Students learn more about nature in new programme

Chris CraddockJersey communities reporter
BBC Two students kneel beside a raised garden bed, using gloved hands to plant or tend soil, with bright sunlight and green fields surrounding them.BBC
Le Rocquier students have been working with the environmental group GROW Jersey

Students from Le Rocquier School are learning how to plant and grow their own vegetables as part of a scheme run with GROW Jersey.

The school's employability team started the group with the environmental group to help the children gain additional skills outside of the classroom.

The eight-week programme is being held at the group's field in Sion and involves planting hedges, weeding, watering and studying the concept of sustainability.

Billy, 16, said "I really like the culture here" and "it's something I really do appreciate that I can do".

Billy stands in the foreground of a garden area wearing a black hoodie, while several other people work together in raised garden beds behind them on a sunny day
Billy, 16, said he appreciated the opportunity to learn outside of the classroom

He said: "I want at least this island to stay environmentally friend.

"It's important to know how growing things also affects the animals here."

Leanne is wearing a dark graphic sweatshirt stands in a grassy garden area, with several people behind them tending to raised beds and clearing vegetation.
Leanne, 16, has enjoyed being part of the programme

Leanne, 16, enjoyed being able to get outside and learning in nature.

She said "it's the best thing in the whole world" and "people love gardens so have to work hard".

"I've loved learning everything here and it's been so much fun getting out of the classroom," Leanne added.

Ellen is wearing a black sweater and red lanyard stands in front of a group working in a garden, with others digging and preparing soil in raised beds in the background.
Ellen Hawgood, from the school, hoped the programme will give the children skills for life

Ellen Hawgood, from Le Rocquier, approached GROW to set up the programme.

She said: "It's really important for them to just to get out get out in nature... it just makes a difference.

"I hope they just get the skills and knowledge to make the environment a little bit healthier for them and their children."

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