Brechin High School pupils living The Good Life

The school is securing a lease of land from Scotia Homes to develop an allotment and food forest to offer rural learning and improve well-being and sustainability opportunities. The three acres, at Brechin West, will be leased for £1 per year.

The new project will give young people the opportunity to get hands-on learning experiences, while providing a space for them and the community to unwind, connect with nature and explore agriculture, horticulture and sustainable practices up close.

Councillor Lynne Devine, Angus Council’s children and learning convener, said: “This is a very innovative partnership which will offer our young people an opportunity to learn beyond the classroom where they can explore, learn and grow – both academically and personally and perhaps lead to future careers.

“Having this space for the school and community is an excellent way to learn hands on about growing food sustainably, preparing healthy meals and promoting long-term healthy lifestyle habits.”

Lesley Lindsay, Scotia Homes project manager, who has been working closely with the school, added: “We were more than happy to get involved, providing the necessary space, design and planning input to help this project come to fruition. We feel the project is well aligned to our vision of creating desirable neighbourhoods for all, encouraging connections within the community, as well as our sustainability and bio-diversit y goals.”