Meon Infant School, Meon Junior School and Moorings Way Infant School pave way for greener future

Meon Infant School, Meon Junior School and Moorings Way Infant School have all planted new trees that will provide more natural shade and cooler spaces in the summer. They will also receive support and educational programmes from greening charity, Trees for Cities, and explore hands-on learning experiences such as how to look after green spaces. 

Meon Juniors will also introduce an edible playground to educate children in growing food and to promote healthy eating habits.

Sara Paine, Executive Headteacher at Meon Way Federation, said:  “I am thrilled to see there will be a positive transformation taking place at all three of our schools. The development of cooler, greener spaces aligns seamlessly with our commitment to creating a healthier and more environmentally conscious learning environment for our students.”

The project has been funded through Portsmouth City Council’s Greening City Fund and the Milton Ward councillors’ Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Neighbourhood Fund, and aligns with the city’s vision to become a green and healthy city. CIL funding allows local authorities to raise funds from developers who are undertaking new building projects in their area. 

Cllr Kimberley Barrett, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Greening the City said:  “We truly are lucky to be able to support such positive initiatives for the children of our city. Soon the children will be learning all about nature and its benefits through engagement workshops led by Trees for Cities and gaining a deeper understanding of greening and sustainability for life.” 

In addition to providing additional green space, the revitalised natural spaces will support biodiversity by serving as crucial habitats for wildlife and lock more carbon into the soil which helps to minimise the contribution towards climate change.  

Cllr Matthew Winnington, Cabinet Member for Community Well-being, Health and Care, said:  “Green environments are so important for good health and well-being. Providing these schools greater tree cover has huge benefits for asthma and other respiratory allergies, heart conditions and mental well-being. This is a fantastic initiative and will help school pupils in Portsmouth to thrive.”