Pupils unveil new greenhouse following storm destruction

Pupils at Dales Park School have unveiled their new greenhouse following the destruction of its old one by Storm Arwen.

The valuable resource on the school allotment allows children to take part in gardening activities year-round, expanding their opportunities to grow vegetables and flowers while supporting local wildlife and environmental initiatives.

The Berryden Road school’s eco-committee, a thriving group of 30 enthusiastic pupils, supported by three dedicated teachers and several parent helpers, meets every Thursday after school. 

The group works hard to nurture the allotment, care for the local environment, and engage in activities that promote sustainability and biodiversity within the community. 

The new greenhouse comes thanks to the fundraising efforts of Bruce Buchan, whose children and grandchildren attended the school, and will significantly boost their efforts, providing more opportunities to grow a wider variety of plants and develop their gardening skills.

He said: “I have a network of companies who have, over time, supported me in many social-gain projects. A raffle draw was organised, and I contacted my network and the total funding was achieved in just over a month.

“I would like to thank Peterhead Golf Course, Fraserburgh Golf Club, and Peterhead FC for selling a lot of raffle tickets and Strachans Ltd for donating a high-value raffle prize.”

Other supporters of the scheme include Alex Aiken & Son Ltd, Swire Group, Dales Engineering Services Ltd, MB Plant, John A Smith & Sons, Davidsons Blast Services, Masson and Glennie, all of whom donated to the project.

Headteacher Wendy Gibson said: “We’re absolutely delighted with our new greenhouse. It’s a fantastic addition to our school and will boost our outdoor learning for all pupils.

“It represents a significant investment that Dales Park School is making in order to enrich the outdoor learning provision for the children at our school. 

“Our eco-committee already does brilliant work growing vegetables and flowers at the allotment, and they’re always running projects that support local wildlife and help care for the environment.

“Having this greenhouse means even more chances for planting and growing, and now the children can enjoy gardening all year round.”