A major tree planting initiative took place across New City College campuses last week in an effort to increase biodiversity, off-set the carbon footprint and improve the local community.
Volunteer students – many from Foundation Learning and SEND courses – were eager to get involved and enjoyed digging, planting and then watering the saplings in the sunshine.
The college received 109 native English trees, including Hazel, Crab Apple, Downy Birch, Goat Willow and Hawthorn from The Woodland Trust. These were planted, using equipment from the charity Tree Musketeers, in designated areas at six NCC campuses in Havering, Redbridge, Epping Forest and Tower Hamlets and will be fully mature in 10 years’ time.
Student Justin Agbonmamwen, from Havering Sixth Form, designed a poster and created the slogan Let’s Make New City College Tree-mendous, which was used to highlight the events.
Art & Design students from Ardleigh Green campus made sustainable tote bags with screen printed bespoke designs inspired by the initiative. These were handed out to volunteers after they had planted the trees.
Once planted, the trees were covered in mulch donated by Tom Duschesne from Top Garden Services, to help them grow quickly and retain water.