A unique outdoor learning space has taken root at St Mary’s CofE Primary School in the heart of historic Sherwood Forest. The school’s new living willow tunnel was designed and created by pupils, staff and local Nottinghamshire county councillor James Gamble.
Councillor Gamble, divisional member for Sherwood Forest, worked closely with pupils over several days to create the structure within the school’s nature area. The tunnel was built using hybrid willow grown and donated by the councillor and will continue to grow over time, creating a natural shaded space for pupils to enjoy.
The project forms part of the school’s wider Forest Schools initiative, which encourages outdoor learning and a stronger connection with nature. Pupils involved in the school’s Thursday afternoon nature club also helped weave and shape the living structure.
As a community forest champion for Greenwood Community Forest, Councillor Gamble shared his knowledge of trees and sustainable planting while guiding pupils through the project.
He said: “It’s been a pleasure working with the pupils at St Mary’s to create something that will grow with them over the years. Projects like this help young people connect with nature in a hands-on way while creating a lasting feature for the school community.”
The living willow tunnel will provide shade, encourage imaginative play, support biodiversity and enhance the school’s outdoor learning environment.
Headteacher Jennie Bailey said: “This has been a fantastic experience for our pupils. They’ve loved being involved in every stage of the process, and it’s a wonderful addition to our Forest Schools programme.
“It has enabled the children to get in tune with nature, get involved with problem-solving and experience working as a team. There have been so many benefits.”
The initiative highlights how partnerships between schools and local representatives can create meaningful and lasting improvements to community spaces while promoting environmental awareness among young people.