CHILDREN from RA Butler Schools pulled on their wellies and planted their own class trees as part of a biodiversity project. The original idea came through a whole school survey which was planned and carried out by the school council. Class teacher Brenda

CHILDREN from RA Butler Schools pulled on their wellies and planted their own class trees as part of a biodiversity project.

The original idea came through a whole school survey which was planned and carried out by the school council.

Class teacher Brenda Kimber said: "This revealed that the children wanted more trees to help combat global warming but also to encourage more wildlife into the school grounds.

"Working together with the Essex Biodiversity Project and by raising their own funds, the school council was overjoyed to be able to make this possible."

The trees selected are native British trees; some are relatively rare now because of imported fruit from abroad.

Four pupils from each class - from Reception to Year Six - planted the trees with very little help.

"The children, including the school council, enjoyed learning planting tricks and techniques and are excited about looking after their special orchard and producing their own apples, pears, plums and cherries," added Mrs Kimber.