Natural World Products partners with St Mary's College on garden makeover project

Since February 2025, a makeover project has been underway in the school garden at St Mary’s College, Northland Road.

The aim of the project has been to revitalise and repurpose the garden, so that all pupils can benefit from the space, by building new raised beds to grow vegetables, herbs and flowers using peat-free compost.

Eager students from Year 8 dove into the project on its first day and have remained active in the garden since.

Paula Molloy, Science Teacher and Wellbeing Leader at St Mary’s College said:

‘We are delighted to see this project off to a really positive start. I am thrilled we have the expertise of Sharon from Natural World Products on site to guide us, as it has been a few years since our Greenhouse has been used and it needs a lot of TLC.

“It is so important to have our pupils involved so they can take ownership and responsibility for it. This is real life experience for them, and what better way to bring the curriculum from the classroom to the fresh outdoors.

“We want to encourage the pupils to understand more about biodiversity, global perspectives, and climate action. After spending a day working outside, with the girls getting stuck in and getting their hands dirty, they were delighted with what they achieved in a hard day's work.

“As Wellbeing Leader, this is a real bonus - blue skies, sun, digging, and planting with the best compost around, what is not to love?

“The benefits of outdoor activities to teenage wellbeing are immense. Being outside not only promotes physical health but also enhances mental well-being, reduces stress, and fosters a connection with nature. This project is a fantastic opportunity for our students to experience these benefits firsthand.”

Brendan McGinn, Principal at St Mary’s College commented:

“We are very fortunate to have had the support from Colm Warren and Sharon Mc Master from Natural World Products and the staff and students from North West Regional College.

“Our own students have had a fantastic time and Paula and Sharon have been instrumental in leading the revival of the greenhouse and outdoor beds. The students were hardworking and committed throughout and I hope to see the project develop around the school grounds over the coming months and years.”

St Mary’s college was awarded the Eco Schools Green Flag this year, which was presented at an awards ceremony on 12^th June.