Wolverhampton school creates outdoor learning space thanks to community grant

Castlecroft Primary School received a Green Community Grant to launch the Wild Tribe project, providing hands-on learning opportunities for all 242 pupils.

The project was made possible through a grant from the Bupa Foundation’s Healthy Cities initiative, supporting grassroots projects that enhance urban green spaces, promoting both people and planet health.

In June, the initiative, in partnership with Groundwork, opens again for applications, offering grants of up to £2,000 to non-fee-paying schools, charities, and not-for-profits to create or enhance green spaces to help people be healthier – such as outdoor classrooms, sensory gardens, allotments and more. Applications can be made on the website.

The funding supported Castlecroft’s newly accredited Wild Tribe project, part of an outdoor education programme inspired by Forest School principals and tailored to the UK curriculum.

With the help of volunteers and the school’s Parent Teacher Association, the area features a mud pie kitchen, outdoor seating, den-building equipment, and a covered learning area.

It also supports biodiversity with a wildflower patch, bug hotel, and a small wildlife pond.

The Wild Tribe area is now a core part of the school’s curriculum, supporting STEM education and offering a sanctuary for neurodiverse pupils and those with additional needs.

Laura Wallace, outdoor learning lead for Castlecroft Primary School, said: “This grant has allowed us to develop an outdoor space that will not only directly impact the quality of provision and learning for our children, but also a quiet and calm space for them to play and explore. Outdoor play is crucial to early childhood development, especially for children who have limited access to green spaces at home.”

Anna Russell, director of the Bupa Foundation, said: "At Bupa, we believe the health of people and the health of our planet are deeply connected. That’s why we’re proud to support grassroots projects like the Wild Tribe outdoor learning area at Castlecroft Primary School. By creating greener, healthier spaces - such as this nature-based learning environment that supports both the curriculum and children with additional needs - we’re improving the health of our cities and encouraging people to spend more time outdoors to connect with nature. This supports physical and mental wellbeing but also contributes to a healthier environment. It’s a great example of the initiative’s impact, and the potential for even more communities to benefit in 2025.

“These grants are made possible thanks to the incredible efforts of our colleagues and corporate partners, who take part in our annual Healthy Cities movement challenge every June to raise funds for local green initiatives. It’s a powerful reminder that when we all get involved, we can make a real difference to the health of our communities and the environment.”

Want to transform your local green space to help people be healthier? To apply, visit groundwork.org.uk/bupa-foundation-green-grants/