On 20th November 2023, the St Mary Bourne school children from Sycamore Class visited Hirst Meadow to plant four juniper trees.
The juniper trees had been planted in pots in 2022, by the previous year’s Sycamore Class and they were now ready to be planted out into their final positions in Hirst Meadow.
The school children were divided into two groups. The first group led by Caroline Hoyes from Sustainable Bourne Valley, explored Hirst Meadow and had the opportunity to witness firsthand the amazing wildlife features that Sycamore Class 2022 had implemented, including hedgehog homes, and bug hotels. They were very keen and asked lots of questions about our wildlife residents and their needs.The second group, armed with spades and determination, set to work planting the juniper trees. The planting process was a lesson in teamwork and patience as each student took turns, ensuring that every tree was planted with care and precision.The two groups then swapped roles, giving everyone a chance to experience both aspects of the day’s activities.
Finally, two students, hammered in the juniper tree sign, to enable other visitors to identify the juniper trees. It was a moment of accomplishment and pride for the whole class, a symbol of their contribution to the meadow.
Sycamore class left Hirst Meacow with a deeper understanding of the natural world around them, and not only had they planted trees, but had also planted seeds of curiosity and passion for conservation.
