A FARNWORTH school has been hailed for its innovative outdoor lessons — which involve pupils planting trees, visiting woodlands and recycling.

Highfield Primary school has been presented with a gold award by the Woodland Trust for its green activities.

Highfield School has planted new trees in their school grounds and enhanced their woodland area by creating new paths and steps for easier access.

They have also encouraged wildlife by making bird houses and bug hotels.

Teacher Andie Ward said: “It was a huge clean up project and the Woodland Trust came to help planting trees and hedges with the children.

Mrs Ward added: "We realise the importance of outdoor play in a natural environment and that it can have a huge impact on children’s development.

“The school ensures all the children get an opportunity to have a set of sessions in the woodland."

The Green Tree Schools initiative, which has seen over 7,000 schools sign up since it was launched in 2008, offers the opportunity to bring the great outdoors, wildlife and green issues into the classroom.

Schools win awards for participating in green activities, which include tree planting, reducing carbon emissions and recycling.

Teacher Emma Walker added: “Highfield Primary School has taken part in two big projects, The Highfield Earth Project and The Green Tree Project.

"The school has a fantastic team of eco/woodland warriors who work hard on recycling, reducing litter and enhancing the school woodlands.

"The whole school has taken part in the projects and the school woodland is used as a valuable resource.

"The Woodland Trust has played a huge part in developing the woodlands by helping to tidy up the area over 10 years ago with parents and staff from the school.”

The Woodland Trust’s vision is a UK rich in woods and trees, enjoyed by everyone.

The charity is dedicated to creating new woodland with help from communities and schools, and protecting and restoring ancient woodland for future generations to cherish.

To find out how schools can get involved at woodlandtrust.org.uk/schools