Promoting Biodiversity

We are proud to be a school that promotes biodiversity across our 70-acre grounds.

Each year, the school takes part in No Mow May, the national campaign encouraging people to put away their lawnmowers and allow wildflowers to flourish. Large areas of the school grounds are left unmown, enabling species such as dandelions, clovers and daisies to grow and provide an essential boost for wildlife.

In October 2025, the Eco Committee planted 150 native bluebell bulbs, generously donated by Old Grovian Roger Davy. Spring‑flowering plants are a vital early source of nectar for pollinators emerging after winter, and this project will help support their populations for years to come.

As part of the Riverbank Project, over 1000 native trees were planted along the riverbank. This involved the removal of invasive species, including Himalayan balsam, before replanting. The new trees help to stabilise riverbanks, reduce erosion and significantly enhance local biodiversity.

A willow coppice has been established above the cricket fields, with an initial planting of 150 willow rods. The coppice has expanded successfully, and the first harvest was taken in 2025. It is hoped that the willow will be used by students for traditional crafts such as basketry and weaving.

Since November 2022, the Eco Committee has planted 460 native trees donated by the Woodland Trust. Most of these have been used to create new hedgerows across the site. More recently, a collaborative tree‑planting project was completed with Bradford City Football Club, who use the school for training. Together, 154 trees were planted — one for every goal scored by the club during the previous season. These trees will form a new woodland area above one of the football training pitches.

Two apple orchards have also been established and, once mature, will provide fresh fruit for the school community. This offers students a unique opportunity to experience food growing first‑hand and understand exactly where their food comes from.

In addition, two new raised beds have been created for a herb garden. Chives and mint are already thriving, alongside cheerful nasturtiums, which also help attract pollinators.