Horticulture is a vital part of our environmental curriculum. Children love planting and watching things grow, enjoying the results of their efforts - whether it’s a vibrant patch of flowers or a fresh salad from the school allotment. Every child undertakes horticulture activities regularly, from tending the wildflower areas to digging on the allotment. Guided by our horticulturalist, they receive a high-quality education in the science behind gardening, exploring soil health, composting, natural fertilisers, propagation and companion planting to name a few.
Our Allotment:
Soil: it's more than just mud under our boots! At Wicor we dig deep, literally and figuratively, to help children understand the magic beneath their feet. From worm hunts to compost experiements, we're growing curous minds alongside healthy soil.
Children gathering colour and flavour from our allotment all year round. Nasturtiums with their fiery petals, sorrel with its lemony zing, and bronze fennel waving feathery fronds… all harvested fresh and full of flavour. Some of our produce goes to Herbies and The ABar in Southsea.
At Wicor, children don’t just learn about food - they grow it. From planting seeds to harvesting fresh produce in our allotment, pupils experience the full journey from garden to plate. The fruits and vegetables they nurture are later used in our cooking activities, giving them a real sense of achievement and teaching valuable lessons about sustainability, healthy eating, and the joy of sharing food they’ve grown themselves.
Year 2 discovered a rainbow of tomatoes - from juicy black cherry to vine-ripened beauties.
They sketched, labelled and identified each variety, filling the classroom with the delicious scent of harvest. Next stop: cooking up something tasty with their homegrown treasures!
Cooking and eating runner beans:
Year 2 stepped into the poly tunnel and discovered a rainbow of tomatoes - from juicy black cherry to vine-ripened beauties.
They sketched, labelled, and identified each variety, filling the classroom with the delicious scent of harvest.
Our Orchards:
Our school is proud to nurture three beautiful orchards that symbolize growth, sustainability, and learning. The oldest orchard, now 10 years strong, stands as a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship and is a growing legacy. Over the years, it has matured into a thriving habitat, providing shade, fruit, and a living classroom for students to explore nature.
Medlar:
From branch to bowl, our Year 6s discovered the old‑world charm of medlars and the sweetness of figs growing right here in our school grounds.
Hands reached high and soon baskets brimmed with autumn’s treasures. Ripe and ready, the fruits were savoured the traditional way - fresh with a sprinkle of sugar and a swirl of cream. A taste of history and nature.
Long Grass:
Fruit Trees:
Apple Tasting:
Our hedgerows:
Planting:
Planting garlic and onions:
Year R Planting Daffodil Bulb's
Planting seeds:
Year 6 start their new unit on microgreens and what better way to begin than by growing their own.
This hands‑on activity is the knowledge starter, giving pupils a chance to explore growth, sustainability and closely observe.
Rooted in the News:
Horticultural Volunteers:
We welcome volunteers to work in our grounds mainly on a Monday and Friday morning.
If you are interested in joining us please contact admin.office@wicor.hants.sch.uk