Colleagues visit Richmond Academy to teach pupils 'no dig gardening'

31/03/2026

Last week, colleagues from our Neighbouhoods Care team visited Richmond Academy to teach pupils about growing plants sustainably using the 'no dig gardening' approach to improve soil health. 

The team met with nine reception pupils from the school and we donated £150 to provide bags of compost and ready to plant flowers including pink kisses and pansies. 

Senior Environmental Services Operative Adam Graham explained the no dig bed process to the pupils of laying brown cardboard over existing weeds so to not disturb the soil, applying compost on top then planting the flowers or vegetables into the prepared bed. 

Reception teacher at Richmond Academy Amy Byron said: “This was a wonderful initiative to help our reception children become excited about growing and caring for the world around them. 

“It was a fantastic way to encourage our pupils to look after their environment and live out our pledge to contribute to environmental sustainability. 

“The experience has also been a perfect link to our upcoming topic, ‘In the Garden’, next term.” 

She added: “A huge thank you to everyone at FCHO for their enthusiasm and for giving the children such a fun, inspiring afternoon. 

  • L To R Jamie Smith, Netty Southward, Brent Dean, Mark Atkinson, Adam Graham, Amy Byron And Reception Children
  • Adam Graham Guiding A Pupil With A Trowel Ahead Of Planting The Flowers
  • Adam Graham Briefing The Pupils Ahead Of The Planting Activity
  • Netty Southward Helping Pupils Plant The Flowers
  • Netty Southward Showing Pupils How To Lay The Cardboard As Part Of The 'No Dig Bed' Process
  • Mark Atkinson Assisting Reception Pupils With The Planting

Construction Manager Jamie Smith added: “The pupils had a wonderful time learning about no dig gardening and how it can help the soil and creatures like worms that live within it. 

“The technique suppresses weeds, conserves moisture, protects soil structure, and creates fertile, low maintenance planting beds perfect for flowers and vegetables. 

“But most importantly all the children got their hands dirty making sure all the plants were safely put into the ground ready to blossom over the coming months.” 

Last year, we worked with our development partner Caddick to construct the raised beds the pupils used for their planting. This work was part of our ongoing community support scheme following the completion of our flagship West Vale development. 

Watch the video to learn more about the visit.