Silsden School grounds transformation – nature and learning together
When Silsden School opened in 2022, its grounds were blank canvas. We’ve been helping turn that into something thriving.
Young people who spend time outdoors, grow food, and watch wildlife developing themselves develop differently. They’re more curious, more confident, more connected to the place they live.
Over the past few years, we’ve worked with the school to transform its generous grounds into a space that encourages biodiversity, supports learning, and gives every child a chance to get their hands dirty.
What we’ve built
Native planting:
- 150 metres of native hedging (shelter and food for birds and insects)
- 32 native trees (carbon storage, wildlife habitat, long-term impact)
- 14 fruit trees (food for the children and local wildlife)
- Wildflower areas and entrance flower beds
Growing spaces:
- A large polytunnel where each year group tends a raised bed, growing their own food
- Raised beds in the Early Years garden for the youngest children to explore and experiment
Wildlife:
- Bird boxes built by groups of children—giving them hands-on experience and giving local birds nesting sites
- Beck exploration sessions run with volunteers from Aire Rivers Trust, where children discover the invertebrates living in our local waterway
Every project involves the children. They’re not just learning about nature—they’re doing something real, seeing the results, and understanding that they can make a difference.
More to come
We’re planning further work parties during autumn and winter 2026/2027 to plant additional trees and hedging. If you’d like to be involved—whether you’ve volunteered with us before or you’re looking for your first opportunity—get in touch.
You’ll work alongside teaching staff and other volunteers, and you’ll see directly how young people respond when you help them connect with nature.
