Churchill Farm Project: Apple Tree Season Begins

The next installment of the Churchill Farm Project has arrived at the Academy.  Students have embraced the arrival of tree planting season with enthusiasm this week, planting apple trees, made possible through a donation from family cider maker’s Thatchers. 

In total, 10 apple trees have been introduced as part of the Thatchers Community Orchard Project. This nationwide initiative, active during the 2026 planting season, supports schools, charities, and community groups across the UK in growing more trees and encouraging environmental stewardship.

The project has provided students with valuable, hands-on learning opportunities. They have explored topics such as ideal growing conditions, site preparation, and land management. Students were also guided by Thatchers’ Farm Manager, who shared expert advice on how to plant and care for the trees properly.

Looking ahead, the orchard will continue to play an important role in the Academy. We plan to incorporate the six different apple varieties into Food Technology and Science lessons later in this year, giving students the chance to see the full journey from planting to harvest and even further along to the table.

This initiative not only enhances our environment but also deepens students’ understanding of sustainability, agriculture, and food production in a practical and engaging way. We want to say a massive thank you to Thatchers for the donation! 

Stay tuned for the next installment of our farm project.