Camphill Primary School pupils building pea structures to help growing stems
Three local primary schools in the Mid and East Antrim Borough have been getting their hands dirty in the best possible way, thanks to the Schools Growing Club – a sustainability-focused initiative that’s nurturing young green fingers.
Camphill Primary School and St Colmcille’s Primary School in Ballymena, along with Glynn Primary School in Larne, were chosen to take part in the Schools Growing Club, a hands-on programme designed to help children cultivate their own food and care for the environment.
Under the expert guidance of local horticulturist Ann McCarron – also affectionately known as Mrs Bloom – pupils built raised beds and sweet pea structures, planted fruit trees, and sowed and harvested a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.
The initiative also introduced creative recycling activities, including turning used tin cans into colourful planters, reinforcing sustainability and upcycling messages.
Each school received a dedicated Growing Club Starter Kit packed with tools, compost, and seeds to support the development of their garden spaces.
As the sessions conclude, the legacy continues: pupils are already applying their new gardening knowledge, maintaining their school gardens, and enjoying the fruits of their labour.
“Healthier, happier children”
St Colmcille’s Primary School sowing seeds in their school garden
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Councillor Jackson Minford, praised the initiative:
“The Schools Growing Club encourages pupils and teachers across Mid and East Antrim to make the most of their outdoor space by growing their own fruit and vegetables.
“Beyond that, it supports learning about wildlife gardening, natural pest control through companion planting, and broadens the pupils’ understanding of sustainability and healthy eating.
“This programme offers children lifelong gardening skills while promoting time outdoors, hands-on learning, and care for their local environment.
“We hope to see lasting benefits through healthier, happier children who are more connected to nature and their food.
“The initiative also supports Eco-Schools and Green Flag goals, and I encourage all the schools involved to continue their Growing Club journey.”
Positive feedback from pupils and teachers
Glynn Primary School pupils planting native trees in their school garden
The children themselves were full of praise for the experience. Cara said:
“I looked forward to Growing Club every week. There was something new to do each time, and learning about growing plants and seeds was so much fun.”
“I really enjoyed Growing Club every Tuesday. We learned all about planting, where to plant, and how to care for our plants. I love helping my grandad in his garden!”
Miss Jessica Simpson, representing Camphill Primary School, described the programme’s wider impact:
“The Growing Club Programme has been a fantastic opportunity for our Nurture Unit and Eco Warriors.
“The provision of new equipment, including planters and gardening tools, is a wonderful addition to our new Nurture Unit.
“It offered pupils the opportunity to plant a variety of fruits and vegetables, explore healthy eating, and engage in hands-on learning.
“The children will continue to care for and maintain the plants, helping to build responsibility and a sense of pride in their environment.”
Corporate support from Kilwaughter Minerals
The Schools Growing Club was made possible with support from programme sponsor Kilwaughter Minerals Ltd, whose backing ensured resources and equipment could be provided for the participating schools.
Gillian Hamilton of Kilwaughter Minerals Ltd said:
“We were delighted to sponsor the Schools Growing Club for three local schools.
“As part of our company’s Environmental, Social and Governance strategy, we’re committed to working with local communities and supporting projects that connect children with nature, the environment, and biodiversity.”
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