A group of trowel-bearing toddlers at a St Albans pre-school are getting their hands dirty thanks to St Albans DIY store Bunnings.
On Monday, September 24, Trinity Community Pre-school kids planted flowers and herbs in a planter donated by the Griffiths Way store.
Manager Joanne Ager said: “We are lucky to have a generous astro-turfed garden in which the children can play and learn throughout the year, particularly as some of our children live in city centre flats without access to outside space or gardens.
“However we had little opportunity for the children to grow flowers or vegetables, to explore soil or hunt for microbeasts.
“In collaboration with Bunnings, we have been able to create a planting area within the garden.
“This will help us to teach children about nature and growth in a fun, hands-on environment.”
The hope is by spring, the children, aged two to five, can grow tomatoes, herbs, carrots and peppers to enjoy during their snack time.
Trinity is based on Beaconsfield Road, at the Trinity United Reformed Church, but is nondenominational.
The preschool is a not-for-profit charity which relies on donations and sponsorships, which is what attracted Bunnings’ attention.
Bunnings activities organiser, Kim Napier, said: “We work with not-for-profit groups, and also help them fundraise through the sausage sizzle stall at our shop.
“We also do workshops, in-store and out-of-store. For example, this week I’m helping 24 Beaver Scouts coming to do painting, or building birdhouses for their badges.”
“We go out to them as well and do different activities.”
“So far we have done 11 projects, and we’ve only been open since February.”
Parent and organising committee chair Teodora Domotor said: “It will be very helpful for the children.
“We live in a flat, but our children are very outdoors-y, so they are learning about these outdoor activities.
“I doubt we would be able to do so much without Bunnings, because this is a charity. They offered us the opportunity without delay, and we are really pleased.”
To find out more about the preschool, email enquiries@trinity-preschool.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here