We planted trees, shrubs, and native wildflowers across 21 planters at Scoil Iosagáin, working alongside Pocket Forests, neighbours, and the school community. A key part of the funding went towards installing an outdoor tap, which has made a huge difference. It allowed neighbours and volunteers to water and care for the planters over the summer and made the project genuinely sustainable.

Impact so far: The planters were full of pollinators over the summer, with wildflowers buzzing with life. Pupils are now learning about trees and biodiversity on site, using the planters as a living classroom.

Some plants didn’t survive, which has helped us learn what works best - we plan to replant and keep improving.

Neighbours have become more engaged, and there is now a small group interested in continuing to care for and green the school area.

This area is dominated by concrete, so change here is slow — but this project has been an important first step. Most importantly, the success of the planting helped build momentum: I was invited to join the school board, where environmental enhancement is now an active focus. That means this work can continue and grow over time.

ChangeX funding made this project possible by covering: the installation of the outdoor tap, we were able to buy tools, very long hose and more wildflower seeds.

What started as a planting project has become an ongoing collaboration between the school and local community, with long-term impact already taking shape.

Last week we have cleared planters with boys from the school and neighbours. This week on Tuesday Pocket Forests have planted trees and shrubs into planters, with the school help. On the pictures there are Pocket Forests team with the principal and the secretary of the school, pupils and neighbours helping with the project. We are awaiting the funding to arrive to buy installing outside tap in order to water the planters.

Action plan:

Timeline:

Our tree and shrub planting project will begin next week, we hope to bring together students, teachers, and the local community to transform 21 planters into vibrant green spaces. The first step will be installing an outdoor tap to ensure easy and sustainable watering, followed by the delivery of trees, shrubs, and mulch. Volunteers from the school and neighborhood will help with planting over the next few weeks. Once the planting is complete, a team of students and volunteers will take responsibility for ongoing care, with regular check-ins to ensure the plants thrive.

Budget: A portion of the funding will go towards installing the outdoor tap, which is essential for long-term sustainability. The rest will be used to purchase mulch, which will help retain moisture and prevent weeds, and a selection of native trees and shrubs that will support biodiversity. 

Impact: This project will bring multiple benefits to the school and the wider community. The newly planted greenery will enhance biodiversity by providing food and shelter for pollinators and small wildlife, while also improving air quality and creating a more pleasant outdoor environment. In the long run, this initiative can also serve as an outdoor learning resource for lessons on ecology, sustainability, and climate action.

Location: Scoil Iosagáin has given full approval for the project. With the support of local volunteers, the project will not only beautify the school but also create a lasting impact in a very grey concrete area. The success of this initiative will depend on collaboration, and we look forward to working together to bring these planters to life.