On Thursday 28 May, fourteen S1 to S5 pupils travelled to the Borders Forest Trust near Moffat to learn more about ecology, natural regeneration and the effects of climate change that can already be seen across the Scottish landscape. Pupils took part in the satisfying task of removing tree guards from established oak and birch trees. Staff were impressed by their determination in the warm temperatures and the group succeeded in removing more than one thousand guards.

As one of Heriot’s chosen charities, the Borders Forest Trust works to restore native woodland and support the recovery of natural habitats across southern Scotland. The visit built on the pupils’ previous contribution at the end of last year where Heriot’s pupils planted 260 trees for the Borders Forest Trust, giving them a strong sense of connection to the landscape and to the work they are helping to support.

The visit offered an excellent example of Learning for Sustainability in action, helping pupils develop environmental awareness, climate literacy and a sense of responsibility for caring for Scotland’s natural environment. We hope to return to the site later in the year to plant more trees.