ONE thousands trees have been planted at a primary school in Bolton to create its very own Forest School.

Pupils from St Francis Catholic Primary School helped plant the threes in its large outdoor area, with assistance from Bradford Environmental Action Trust.

The Forest School is part of a district-wide programme called Trees for Learning, which has been developed by Bradford Council and Forest of Bradford, to plant 20,000 new trees at schools in the district over the next two years.

Now the trees have been planted, pupils will benefit from a series of follow up sessions to learn more about trees and the benefits they bring, as well as developing their outdoor skills, resilience, confidence and creativity.

St Francis’ Forest School leader, Jenny Trotter, said: “Forest School is a fantastic experience that will offer all children at St Francis the opportunity to develop their confidence and self-esteem through hands on learning experiences in a woodland or similar nature setting.

“The children are monitoring the young woodland as it matures, providing a valuable resource for outdoor learning and Forest School activities.”

Andrea Haines, head of school, added: “Outdoor learning is important to us at St Francis.

“Through the sessions we have carried out so far, the children have shown great enthusiasm and have developed their way of working with others.”