Enabling Outdoor Learning Opportunities with a BioScapes® SuDS and BNG Planter at Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, Fulham
Background
Holy Cross Catholic Primary School in Fulham, London, faced significant challenges with its outdoor environment. The area lacked greenery, biodiversity and was prone to frequent flooding, limiting educational and recreational opportunities for pupils. This affected the school’s ability to deliver a comprehensive educational experience, particularly in terms of environmental awareness and conservation.
Objective
The challenge was to address the lack of biodiversity and the flood risk in an outdoor space with lots of hard surfaces. The design of the playground led to excess surface water when it rained, hampering outdoor activities and creating discomfort for the children after play time.
BioScapes’ solution
Working closely with the school staff, BioScapes assessed the need and recommended their standard Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) planter. This planter is specifically designed to not only manage excess water through improved drainage but also to enhance biodiversity by introducing a variety of plant species and habitat refuges to support urban wildlife.
Installation and educational benefits
The installation process itself became a hands-on learning experience for the students. Children were actively involved in planting and observed the installation, which stimulated their curiosity and engagement with nature. The planter supports curriculum links in science, particularly in learning about plant life cycles, water cycles, water conservation and local ecosystems.
Watching the installers, the pupils were quick to mimic the process, as Holy Cross reception class teacher, Moira Gregory, explained: “It was lovely to see the children watching what was going on and then, with their own construction materials, sort of emulating the same sort of thing. That’s a really massive learning process. In reception, a lot of their learning is through play, so to see that happening without me initiating that play with them was really, really good.”
Curricular integration
The BioScapes planter has facilitated a direct connection with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, which emphasises learning through play and exploration. By integrating the planter into daily learning activities, children can engage in sensory play—touching, smelling and even tasting edible plants like nasturtiums and cherry tomatoes. This not only enhances their understanding of nature but also encourages healthy eating habits.
Conclusion
The BioScapes SuDS and BNG Planter at Holy Cross Catholic Primary School demonstrates how integrating sustainable, biodiverse solutions can transform educational environments. It has resolved the practical issue of drainage while simultaneously enriching the school’s curriculum and providing students with invaluable opportunities to interact with and learn from their natural environment.
“I just wanted to touch base to thank you for all of your support and the wonderful installation of our SuDS planter. It looks fantastic and I can't wait to watch it flourish.The installation was so impressive, with absolutely no disruption to our school day, but all of the necessary learning for the children. I cannot thank you enough for your professionalism.The kids loved it and I have had positive feedback from the staff. I have had colleagues pointing out to me that it's ticking sustainability boxes for the school, that sustainability is important and that it's a great addition to the playground......all in all, a valuable education all round.BioScapes themselves have just made it so easy and have been so approachable. They’ve been absolutely great and have bent over backwards to help us.” Moira Gregory, Reception Class Teacher, Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, Fulham
Moira Gregory, Reception Class Teacher, Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, Fulham
To learn more about the BioScapes SuDS & BNG planter, click here.
Discover how else we’re supporting schools here.