Planting has started on a wellbeing field to be used by Jersey College for Girls and Jersey College Prep students, marking the culmination of an important project for the College as plans were first drawn up in February 2014.
This latest step follows the Planning Department’s approval of the College’s plans to turn agricultural land into an educational amenity with associated boundary fence and landscaping work.
The new space will provide an informal “break out” space to benefit our students’ wellbeing and mental health. It will be used for recreational space, outdoor learning, informal games and ecological study.
Last week, students from both JCP and JCG worked with local charity Jersey Trees for Life to start planting the hedgerow that will surround the field. This also served as an educational opportunity about the importance of wildlife and the promotion of biodiversity.
JCP’s Eco Team planted the very first tree on Monday and pupils from Key Stage 2 as well as students from Year 7 got involved to plant a total of 360 trees - including Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Elder, Hazel, Field Maple, Holly and Wild Cherry.
Sylvie, from Year 6, said: “I found the tree planting a really enjoyable experience. It was so nice knowing that the whip I had planted could be part of something bigger. Everyone from Jersey Trees for Life were so kind, helpful and understanding. The trees will make the field so beautiful and will act as a great home for Jersey's wildlife. I can’t wait for the hawthorns to grow and bloom for many years to come.”
It is expected the field will be ready for the use of students after Easter.