Grow London

Children growing the trees their communities are missing.

London's trees are not shared equally. Some of the capital's most deprived neighbourhoods also have the lowest levels of tree cover, leaving communities with less access to the benefits that trees and green spaces provide.

Trees help cool our streets, improve air quality, support wildlife and contribute to our physical and mental wellbeing. Yet the places where they could make the greatest difference are often those where they are most needed.

Grow London is an Earth Restoration Service initiative designed to bring trees, nature and ecological learning to children and communities across London's least green neighbourhoods.

Children as growers

At the heart of Grow London is a simple idea: give children the opportunity to grow the trees that will one day become part of their own communities.

Working with primary schools, ERS aims to establish small tree nurseries where pupils can nurture native saplings, learning to water, weed, measure and monitor their growth.

The trees become a living classroom, bringing subjects such as science, geography and mathematics to life while helping children develop a lasting connection with the natural world.

As the trees mature, the aim is to plant them in local parks, school grounds and other community green spaces, bringing more nature into the neighbourhoods where the children live.

Making space for nature

Many inner-London schools have limited outdoor space. Grow London is designed to accommodate different environments, from a small garden corner or raised planters to nurseries hosted in nearby community gardens and parks.

By working with schools, landowners and local organisations, ERS aims to create opportunities for children to participate in ecological restoration, regardless of the space available at their school.

The ambition is for these nurseries to continue growing new generations of trees, creating a lasting source of green spaces and habitat for their communities.

Help us grow London

Grow London brings together environmental restoration, education and community involvement, giving young people the opportunity to make a tangible difference to the city they call home.

We're looking to work with schools, landowners, businesses and funding partners who share our vision of a greener, healthier London.

Together, we can help children grow the trees their communities are missing.