Bulbs bloom at Richmond Academy to create nature friendly zone

Back in October, 550 daffodils found a home thanks to our Neighbourhood Care team and eleven green-fingered pupils from Richmond Academy’s eco-council.  

As part of our commitment to supporting the community at our flagship West Vale development, we donated the bulbs to help transform Richmond Walk into a nature-friendly haven, located near the school and the West Vale development. The students even saved a few to plant on their own school grounds for an extra splash of spring colour. 

This week, our team returned to the school to lead a ‘no-dig gardening’ session with early years pupils - it was fantastic to see those October daffodils in full bloom.

Neighbourhood Environment Manager, Paul Woodward, said: “Making the local landscape more beautiful is great for pupils, staff, parents and local people and the fruits of their labour is something they will be able to see every year for years to come.  

“The work is also part of our ongoing commitment to engage with the local community at West Vale and promote biodiversity by creating nature friendly zones.”  

Ellie Robinson, Personal Development Lead at Richmond Academy explained: "The bulb planting gave our pupils a meaningful, hands-on opportunity to learn about nature, responsibility and care for the environment. It brought learning to life across the curriculum, supporting science, wellbeing and values education, while fostering teamwork, respect and a strong sense of community.”  

She added: “The project reflects all ten Harmony Trust pledges, particularly being an eco-warrior, being respectful and being a volunteer. The children focused on living in harmony with nature, caring for ourselves and others, contributing positively to our community, and understanding how small, thoughtful actions can have a lasting impact on the wider world.”