Grant News

The Tree Council has opened applications for its Orchards for Schools programme, offering schools across the UK the opportunity to receive free fruit trees and hedgerow plants to create or enhance orchards on school grounds. The initiative is designed to support outdoor learning, biodiversity, and long-term environmental stewardship while linking directly to curriculum-based teaching.

Eligible applicants include nursery, primary, secondary and special schools in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Successful schools will receive either a fruit tree orchard pack or a fruiting hedgerow pack, along with supporting educational resources and guidance to help pupils take part in planting and caring for the trees.

The grant does not provide cash funding; instead, it supplies young fruit trees or hedgerow whips selected to benefit wildlife, improve green spaces and contribute to climate action. Schools are expected to have suitable outdoor space and a plan for the long-term care of the trees once planted.

Tree delivery will take place during the appropriate planting season, and schools are encouraged to involve pupils in hands-on learning throughout the project.

The closing date for applications is midnight on 25 January 2026.