KES Prep Supports The Hampshire Hedge Project with Hedgerow Planting

KES Prep proudly played its part in the Hampshire Hedge initiative, an inspiring environmental campaign led by CPRE Hampshire.

Year 5 pupils, staff, and volunteers came together to plant 200 metres of hedgerow on the school grounds, contributing to a vital nature recovery corridor. The Hampshire Hedge project aims to connect the South Downs National Park and the New Forest National Park by creating a continuous network of hedgerows winding through the heart of Hampshire. This ecological corridor links woodlands, meadows, local nature reserves, and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), helping to enhance biodiversity, support wildlife habitats, and tackle climate change.

Mr Caie, Head of Outdoor Learning at KES Prep, said: "We were delighted to be part of the Hampshire Hedge project and to allow our pupils to engage with such an impactful environmental initiative. Planting these hedgerows has not only enriched the habitat potential of our grounds but has also provided an invaluable opportunity to teach our pupils about the importance of conservation. We believe hands-on experience like this will empower them to take an active role in making a positive impact, reinforcing the vital message that small actions can make a big difference in supporting wildlife and preserving the environment."

Since its launch in 2023, the Hampshire Hedge project has made impressive strides, with schools, communities, and volunteers across the county rallying together to make the vision a reality. Once complete, the corridor will stand as a beautiful feature of Hampshire’s landscape, offering critical support to wildlife and the wider ecosystem while connecting key green spaces under increasing development pressure.

KES Prep’s involvement reflected the school’s commitment to environmental education and sustainability. The planting day was an engaging and rewarding experience, inspiring pupils to take pride in caring for the natural world.

Together with CPRE Hampshire, KES Prep is proud to contribute to this ground-breaking campaign, helping to create greener spaces for future generations to enjoy. KES Prep has been recognised as for its outdoor learning provision, and has been praised for outstanding achievement in sustainable development education and management and continually improves the environmental performance of the School and the wider community.