Boosting biodiversity in schools
Pupils across Hackney explain how they’re creating greener, wilder playgrounds
Children and teachers at three Hackney primary schools have been taking part in projects designed to boost diversity, support wildlife and encourage outdoor learning.
This includes transforming playgrounds into nature-friendly spaces, creating habitats for bugs, planting wildflowers and encouraging pupils to spend more time outdoors.
The initiatives are part of the Council’s work with schools to get young people involved in climate action and develop their own action plans. Hackney Council supports schools with grants, training and practical support to bring these projects to life.
Pupils from William Patten Primary School in their new nature area
William Patten Primary School
At William Patten Primary School, a new Climate Action Plan is helping to build a greener, more sustainable future for the school community.
Craig Porteous, Deputy Headteacher, says: “The school is committed to making eco-friendly choices, from reducing waste to saving energy. Central to this vision is transforming the school grounds.
“Two years ago, the school made the bold decision to remove a section of the playground previously covered in astroturf and turn it into a nature playground area, designed to adapt to changing weather conditions and boost biodiversity.”
The new outdoor area features a pond, a herb garden, and a dead hedge that provides habitat for insects.
Students are also taking their learning to new heights – literally – by harvesting edible produce from a rooftop garden and planting flowers to attract pollinators.
Year 4 pupil Teo says: "It is so much better than the past outdoor space.”
Martha, in Year 3, adds: "My favorite thing is the new deadhedge because now we see lots of bugs and insects.”
Students at Simon Marks Jewish School helping with planting activities
Simon Marks Jewish School
At Simon Marks Jewish School, pupils have been helping transform their playground into a more vibrant environment.
Mr Syed Gilani, Assistant Headteacher, says: “With help from Hackney Council, we secured funding from the London Clean Air Initiative to turn our school playground into a wilder space.
“Our pupils got involved by planting wild grasses and flowers, as well as creating colourful eco-inspired designs, working with modern Jewish artists.
“Children learnt about how plants act as giant filters, making the air cleaner and healthier, which helps plants and animals thrive in green spaces.”
Year 3 student Kadija says: “I really liked planting different types of beautiful flowers and being around nature. This helps bees make more honey and the air cleaner, which is good for us!”
Jemimah, in Year 4, adds, “What I liked about this project was that I planted a flower and helped carry buckets with soil to the garden with other children in my class.
“Planting is important because it helps the environment by giving more oxygen and gives us clean air.”
Students at St Matthias Primary School playing in the outdoor kitchen
St Matthias Primary School
St Matthias Primary School has also created a dynamic playground designed to maximise students’ engagement with nature and encourage biodiversity.
Amy Frohock, Deputy Headteacher, says: “The new outdoor setup features a mud kitchen, growing spaces and utilises Outdoor Play and Learning strategies, which have encouraged more active and creative playtime and improved the children’s social and emotional development.
“Pupils across the school are also participating in regular forest school activities in partnership with The Garden Classroom, deepening their connection to the natural environment.”
One pupil adds: "Playing and learning outdoors makes me feel happy. Lunchtimes are so fun!
“I enjoy making bug hotels in the meadow at lunchtime and cooking different dishes in the mud kitchen. I now know how to look after things in nature and respect it."