> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://wiki.greatcollaboration.uk/knowledgebase/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://wiki.greatcollaboration.uk/knowledgebase/society/education/habitats-and-biodiversity.md).

# Habitats and Biodiversity

## Hedgehog Highways and Hotels

Hedgehogs can always benefit from assistance! For schools in more urban areas, providing support and shelter for hedgehogs is a relatively easy way to get involved.

{% embed url="<https://www.hedgehogstreet.org/help-hedgehogs/link-your-garden/>" %}

{% embed url="<https://www.rspb.org.uk/helping-nature/what-you-can-do/activities/build-a-hedgehog-house>" %}

***

## Surrey Wildlife Trust for Inspiration

Surrey Wildlife Trust has an excellent collection of guides on specific environmental actions! These are more focused on the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme, but they can be applied anywhere!

{% embed url="<https://www.surreywildlifetrust.org/services/working-schools/duke-edinburghs-award-opportunities/dofe-actions-nature>" %}

***

## Wildflower Planting

Depending on how much free green space there is at schools, a wildflower meadow would be an easy and inexpensive way to benefit the environment.\
\
It also provides an excellent avenue to discuss the importance of bees in an ecosystem.

### Past Example and Further Planting Commitments.

{% embed url="<https://www.ground-control.co.uk/about/our-customers/case-studies/pinner-park-school/>" %}

Possible actions to take based on the case study:

Create a School Micro-Forest\
Plant a dense “micro-forest” using native trees.

Who: Students + staff + external partners

Steps:

* Identify unused land
* Plant native species suited to the local soil
* Maintain and monitor growth.

Impact: Carbon capture + biodiversity increase

Measure: Tree growth + species presence

Micro-forests provide long-term carbon storage and habitat.

***

## Develop a Wildflower Meadow

Convert part of the school grounds into a wildflower meadow.

Who: Eco club/students

Steps:

* Prepare the soil and plant native wildflowers.
* Reduce mowing
* Monitor pollinators (bees, butterflies)

Impact: Supports pollinators + biodiversity

Measure: Number of insects observed

Meadows were designed to attract pollinating insects.

***

## Plant Hedgerows and Trees

Introduce hedgerows and tree planting across the school.

Who: Whole school

Steps:

* Plant native hedgerows around boundaries
* Add fruit trees (orchard)
* Use species suited to local conditions.

Impact: Provides food, shelter, and carbon storage

Measure: Survival rate of plants

Hedgerows and trees create food and shelter for wildlife.

### Apply for free Trees here!

{% embed url="<https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees/schools-and-communities/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=PPC&utm_campaign=CTP24&utm_content=CTP2>" %}

***

## Create an Edible Garden / Orchard

Grow fruit and vegetables on school grounds.

Who: Students + staff

Steps:

* Plant fruit trees (apple, pear, plum)
* Grow vegetables in garden beds.
* Use produce in lessons or meals.

Impact: Reduces food miles + teaches sustainability

Measure: Amount of food grown

The school created an orchard and an edible garden.

<br>

***


---

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