Pupils at St Conval’s Primary School in Shawlands dedicate two hours each week to outdoor activities as part of the school’s commitment to eco-friendly education. Over the past months, these enthusiastic students have been busy nurturing seedlings, planting crops, and caring for their Eco Garden.
Marian Kelly, the headteacher, noted that the children take “great pride” in their gardening efforts and are developing a strong appreciation for nature. St Conval’s Eco Garden has also been recognized as a finalist in Glasgow’s Community Champions Awards.
Kelly explained that the parent council successfully secured lottery funding, which allowed the school to revamp its playground and create the Eco Garden. This area now features a vegetable plot, an orchard, and a herb garden, transforming what was once an overgrown lot into a vibrant space that inspires children to spend time outdoors.
As part of their eco-friendly education, the school encourages students to explore local green spaces like Pollok Park and Queen’s Park. Kelly emphasized that this hands-on learning helps develop essential skills such as cooperation, communication, and teamwork.
The children have shown a strong commitment to outdoor education and understand the importance of forest ecosystems. Their efforts have been recognized with the LEAF Award, a newer version of the Eco-Schools awards. After participating in a pilot program last year, they achieved level two of this award and are now advancing into their third year.
Recent surveys revealed that students are eager to grow their own produce in the Eco Garden. Kelly highlighted research supporting the benefits of outdoor learning and gardening for children.
St Conval’s recently won the Environmental Champion prize in the South heats of the Glasgow Community Champions Awards and will compete in the Grand Final on December 4. The awards are organized by Glasgow Times in partnership with Glasgow City Council, Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust, and St Enoch.
Kelly expressed her pride in her students’ achievements: “We’re very excited and proud. It’s an honor to represent the school. The children have shown incredible capabilities.”
Related topics: