Po ly tunnel playing key role in children’ s development
THE pupils at Our Lady of Mercy Primary School have been learning about growing their own vegetables and plants thanks to the recent addition of a polytunnel on the school’s grounds.
The polytunnel was jointly funded by Sligo County Council, the school Bord of Management and the Parents Association. Seeds, soil, and pots were kindly donated by Homebase Sligo.
The school places a strong emphasis on children’s social and emotional development. Therefore, the polytunnel project has clearly aligned with this.
The vision has been for every child in the school to grow food by directly sowing their own seeds, and caring for these new plants.
Under the guidance of organic and social gardener Sophie Skinner, this has been successfully completed with hugely positive feedback from pupils, parents and teachers.
The polytunnel is now an integral part of the school life at the Mercy for all classes, it provides children with the opportunity to grow plants without chemicals, waiting for them to germinate and grow into something delicious to eat.
They are also developing a sense of responsibility towards caring for the plants as well as fostering teamwork and friendships, particularly those with behavioural and learning difficulties.
Research has shown that when children grow some of their own food they develop what is called ‘ food empathy’ a deeper connection with food which is proven to lead to a healthier life.
It is said that children who are involved in growing their own food have better diets, eat more fruit and vegetables and have a better understanding of food and nutrition.
The school receives funding under Sligo County Council’s Anti- Litter and Anti- Graffiti Awareness Grant, and are hopeful that in the near future a new playground can be added.
Over 400 pupils at the school are involved in the project, and are all in agree- ment that it’s been an enjoyable learning process.
Sixth class pupils in particular, say they have found it rewarding.
Martin told The Sligo Champion: “We got to plant all sorts of different things, like carrots, runner beans, lettuce. it’s really good. You can learn more about plants and growing plants, and I really enjoy it,” he said.
Cameron feels that it allows those who may not have a garden to learn more about gardening and growing their own.
“I really like the fact that people who live in town or even in the country, who might not be able to grow plants or vegetables in their gardens get a chance to do it here. We all get the same chance to learn about it.”
For Paulina and Áine, it’s changed their views on vegetables. “I like that we’re learning how to grow plants and how they grow. It has made me eat more vegetables - I didn’t like carrots before but I do now,” said Paulina.
Aine said: “I liked how you see how they grow and how they’re progressing. It was good that there was a few varieties of plants and vegetables for us too.”