Connecting children and nature
With tree cover in Westminster as low as 8%, we helped the children of Millbank Academy connect with nature by transforming their concrete playground into a green oasis.
The School's outdoor space was dominated by a concrete football pitch. With only a handful of trees around the perimeter nature felt distant and there were limited options for quieter or inclusive play.
Holistic design
With the help of pupils, the grey playground was reimagined into a spaces for conversation, rest and collaborative play.
The introduction of fruit trees, raised beds, a greenhouse and habitats for wildlife has given the children an opportunity to experience nature and learn outdoors.
Climate resistant species and sensory plants like rosemary were chosen to support health and wellbeing today and in years to come.
Children who didn’t like playing football now have areas where they can naturally congregate. They spot the plants and point things out, thinking about what needs doing and when. That kind of routine can be very soothing.
Lead Teacher, Millbank Academy
What happens next
Our support doesn't stop once the last tree or plant is in place. With each school project our engagement team delivers one year of educational activities, teaching resources and skills sessions for staff to make the most of the transformed space.
If you'd like to connect more children in towns and cities with nature, please donate today if you can.
Together we can enrich lives and create leafy, liveable places for today and future generations.