Monkton joins the BSA Boarding Orchard

On Wednesday 26th May, Monkton Combe School joined the Boarding Schools’ Association’s Boarding Orchard.

Principal Chris Wheeler was joined by Wild Monkton representative Sarah Sidders, and Senior School pupils to plant a Malus domestica ‘Beauty of Bath’ apple tree by the school’s pond.

The occasion marks Monkton Combe School becoming the latest member of the BSA’s Boarding Orchard - the largest orchard, by distance in the UK. The initiative was launched by the Boarding Schools’ Association in 2014 and links boarding schools together as they each plant fruit trees in their grounds. The trees in the network symbolise the ‘tree of knowledge’ and demonstrate each school’s commitment to growth and caring for the environment. 

At Monkton, we’re extremely lucky to be located in a beautiful valley in an area of outstanding natural beauty, on the edge of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We operate a Wild Monkton initiative which enables pupils to immerse themselves in nature and gives them the tools to develop into young adults who will, in their lifestyle and commitments, consciously take action to protect the environment. The pupils present at the tree planting are an example of just a few who have had the opportunity to engage in, and benefit from this programme.

Becoming part of the BSA’s Boarding Orchard furthers our commitment to instil in our young people a desire to care for our world, while also creating wider links with the boarding community nationwide. 

We are very much looking forward to watching the tree blossom for generations of Monktonians to enjoy!