The team of volunteers returned to St. Mary's school grounds today Tuesday, February 15th, 2022 to continue on our Forest Classroom or Stepping Stone Forest journey with the planting of 508 native Irish trees. The team worked tirelessly throughout the morning to dig and plant all these wonderful saplings. The children from both junior and senior schools visited and lent a hand in planting along the way. The Parents Association provided invaluable teas, coffee's and biscuits to keep the volunteers going through the blustery day. We also had a visit from some of the residents of Liscarne Residents Community group who came to visit our soon-to-be sensory garden and outdoor space as well as the wonderful sapling planting for the Stepping Stone Forest.
Many thanks to all the children that got a chance to take part on the day, Collinstown TY students, and the 6th class pupils for their help on the day. This rich habitat of native Irish trees hopes to attract an abundance of wildlife species. The space will take time to become a fully grown forest with an eventual woven willow tree tunnel as the entrance to what will become an open classroom area surrounded by a forest. We envisage a magical space of calm and serenity as well as super learning opportunities for all the children and staff at St. Mary's Junior and Senior schools.
A special mention to Niall and the two Johns and their team of volunteers from Tallaght Litter Mugs and Dodder Action for making the day so special for the children of St. Mary's. You can see all the incredible projects going on with John and his team at Stepping Stone Forest Schools
And a final special thanks to Michael for his coverage on both our mulch spreading and tree planting days: Michael Finn/Wildlife Photographer
