Pupils in Gainsborough dig in for another harvest with Tesco planters

Pupils at Hillcrest Early Years Academy are preparing for another growing season with the recycled fruit and vegetable planters donated by Tesco.

The planters, made from recycled soft plastics including crisp packets, bread bags and yoghurt tops collected at Tesco stores, were first introduced to the school in 2025 as part of Tesco’s Fruit & Veg for Schools initiative. The retailer recently announced that the Fruit & Veg for Schools scheme will be expanding from September 2026, to double the number of schools participating.

Last year’s project was a success, with students enjoying planting, caring for, and harvesting their fruit and vegetables. Through engaging real-life experiences, they gained knowledge about food production, sustainability and healthy eating.

By turning recycled materials into thriving gardens, the initiative helps pupils explore how simple daily choices can make a real difference .

Samantha Stokes, Headteacher at Hillcrest Early Years Academy said: “We were very grateful to receive the planter at the academy. Until recently, we were considering the most suitable location, and we have now established a school allotment garden where the planter has been incorporated.

“The planter is now being used as part of our outdoor learning provision, supporting children to develop an understanding of how plants grow and the importance of caring for the environment. It has provided valuable hands-on opportunities for pupils to take part in planting, watering, and nurturing flowers and vegetables, helping to build their confidence, teamwork skills, and sense of responsibility.

“Overall, this has had a really positive impact on pupil engagement and wellbeing, particularly through encouraging outdoor learning and exploration. We thank Tesco for the support they’ve provided.”

Tesco’s Fruit & Veg for Schools programme supports schools with higher-than-average free school meal ratios, helping to provide children with access to fresh fruit and vegetables throughout the school year.

Claire De Silva, Head of Communities at Tesco, said: “Tesco Fruit & Veg for Schools is making a significant difference by providing young people in some of the most challenged communities in the UK with more of the essential vitamins and minerals that children need to thrive.

“The planters help schools go even further in encouraging pupils to give healthy foods a try and form habits that will stay with them as they grow up.

“They also teach pupils the value of collecting and recycling the plastic packaging they use at home.”

For more information about Tesco’s Free Fruit & Veg for Schools programme, visit https://www.tescoplc.com/free-fruit-and-veg-for-schools