National sustainability award for schoolchildren

South Molton Community Primary School will be proudly flying it’s Eco-Schools green flag this year, a national award scheme which is part of the independent environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy.

“This is a particularly important subject for the children at our school as our values are based around nature,” said Headteacher Tom Parkin. “The children and school community have completed a huge variety of tasks this year including creating a wildflower meadow, planting trees, creating wild areas, installing bird boxes and holding regular no electricity days.”

The Eco-committee at the primary school say they are “very proud” that they achieved a green flag with distinction this year. The award took into account all the fantastic work they have been doing to help the school become more sustainable and develop nature in our school grounds.

“We already have huge plans for this new academic year and can’t wait to get started on them this term. A huge thank you to all the Eco-committee for giving up their time over the last year, what a fantastic job they have done!” added Tom.

The school also scooped a North Devon Biosphere ‘Pledge for Nature’ award in May for their work on sustainability and encouraging nature to flourish.

Jobs to do in October

1. Plant up pots and baskets with winter flowering plants, pansies, polyanthus, primroses, heathers, and bulbs.

2. Cut back perennials when they have finished flowering, this will improve their appearance and flowering.

3. Divide herbaceous perennials which are becoming congested or outgrowing their space. It will reinvigorate the plants and multiply your stock.

4. In frost prone areas move tender plants into a greenhouse or conservatory before the first frost.

5. Divide established rhubarb crowns to create new plants. Replant the crowns with lots of well-rotted manure ensuring you don’t plant them too deeply.

This month at the nursery we start preparing our holly wreath bases. We use straw instead of moss to create the base as it’s more environmentally friendly, the bases are then bagged up, out of the way of the mice, until we need them from the end of November.

Wreaths can be ordered via Facebook or call the nursery on 01884 860355.

Until next month, Jenny Howells

October Opening Times

Thursday Friday Saturday 9am - 5pm