A campaign to create orchards in schools as a learning resource for pupils has been expanded.

Nottinghamshire County Council joined with its waste partner, Veolia, as well as Tesco and community action charity Groundwork, to introduce greener areas in schools by donating free fruit trees and plants in 2022.

This year the Veolia Orchard campaign included 21 schools, which received apple and pear trees, and strawberry plants.

Steve Newman, general manager at Veolia Nottinghamshire, said: “We are committed to enhancing air quality near schools, engaging students about the importance of trees and plants, and implementing creative recycling initiatives that benefit our communities.”

Coun Neil Clarke, cabinet member for Transport and Environment at the council, added: “These trees will provide an excellent resource for schools. Children love being outdoors so we hope that these mini orchards give them an extra opportunity to learn outside and get their hands dirty. It’s also important that children learn and understand more about how the food they eat is grown. It’s great that schools can use the programme to nurture new skills for their pupils and take positive action for their communities.”

Among the schools involved this year were: Mansfield — St Peter’s CofE Primary Academy, Abbey Primary; Mansfield Woodhouse — Northfield Primary; Clipstone — Samuel Barlow Primary Academy; Kirkby — Abbey Hill Primary and Nursery School, Ashfield School.