PRIMARY schools in the area now have a brighter, greener outlook thanks to the addition of new planters.
The Stalybridge branch of the Women’s Institute, in partnership with Works 4U, is putting a total of 16 in the town and Dukinfield.
And children at Millbrook and Oakdale Primaries have already seen the visual effect plants and planters – made from recycled palettes – can have while learning about the environmental benefits by putting the first batch of flora in.
It is an important project for the WI after members decided to make more of a difference in the area it serves.
Dorothy Holt, of Stalybridge WI – which has also put them in at Silver Springs, Gorse Hall, St Paul’s, Stalyhill, Wild Bank, Yew Tree and Broadbent Fold schools – said: “Planters add a lot to the schools and the children in them as they know what the plants in them can do for the environment.
“There are also lovely plaques on each of them, so its easily understood who’s made it and given it to them.
“But it’s not all about ‘us, us, us.’ Ladies who have helped present them have links with the schools – children may have gone there and grandchildren may still be there.
“It was just trying to spread it out and get people into schools. Its important for the Women’s Institute to make its presence felt in the area and Works 4U are doing marvellous things.
“There will eventually be one put in at St John’s in Dukinfield but that will likely be in the Autumn as building work is going on at the moment.”
Dorothy and Valerie Clemence, also of Stalybridge WI, spoke with Millbrook Primary’s school council as they planted about what plants can do for the environment.
And it is hoped the institute’s input can make a long-lasting difference.
