Hawksworth School takes great pride in its surroundings. A pleasant environment enhances the education and well-being of the children.
The grounds have been developed over the years and new features are added annually. There are two ponds - one providing a habitat for frogs, newts, tadpoles and other water-dwelling creatures, the other is home to several members of the carp family.
Most of the plants which are seen around school are grown in our own greenhouse.
Groups of children spend playtimes and lunchtimes learning how to thin out seedlings, pot-on and plant out.
The school has its own tree nursery and several of our our larger trees are home-grown. Many children have taken trees to plant in their own gardens at home. Ex-pupils have also donated trees which they have grown!
Close to the garden there is the playhouse. This is equipped with fridge, table, chairs and even a washing machine. It is approached by a wood-chip path which makes it accessible even in bad weather. The outside is brightened by a flower tub which provides colour throughout the year.
Attached to the side of the playhouse is a nesting box. There are several of these which the children have sited around the grounds and in nearby woodland.
The children tend the garden all year round. In Spring the bulbs which have been planted in the Autumn begin to add welcome colour. The Summer term is busy, with children weeding flower borders and picking (and eating) fresh strawberries, blackcurrants and gooseberries.
There is a scented garden, a vegetable plot and areas which have been designed to attract butterflies. In Summer the garden is a riot of radiant colour. |
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The school has won many awards for its environmental work. It is a regular winner in the Leeds In Bloom Schools Competition and it makes a significant contribution to Hawksworth village's entry into the Yorkshire In Bloom and Britain In Bloom competitions, again with much success.
Groups of children regularly amaze judges with their knowledge of plants and wildlife and this is always commented upon in their written judgements.
Gardeners, of course, need the right equipment.
Our toolshed is well-stocked with a range of implements - hoes, spades, forks and secuteurs.
Wheelbarrows, seed-trays, propagators and trowels are kept here too.
There is also a large selection of wellies in a range of colours and sizes.
Close to the toolshed we have our own cold-frames and compost heaps. Click here to read more about our school grounds. |