Concertus is delighted to share that a special wildflower planting event has taken place at The Pines Primary School in Red Lodge, marking an important step towards enhancing the school’s outdoor spaces.

The event involved the planting of Field Wormwood, an endangered plant which is specific to the Breckland area of Suffolk. Field Wormwood is of critical importance as an essential food source for the rare Wormwood Moonshiner Beetle and decline of the plant in recent years has placed the beetle’s continued survival at risk. The planting activity means that The Pines is now the only primary school in the UK known to have Field Wormwood on site.

Led by Principal Landscape Architect Rachel Cade and Project Manager Rebecca Coulson-Parker, the initiative forms part of a wider programme to improve the school’s playing fields and create a vibrant, sustainable environment for students.

The project has involved a number of elements of work, including the laying of hard play surfaces, re-seeding and establishment of the playing field, alongside planting wildflowers, fruit and ornamental trees.

The team worked closely with local charities, the Zoological Society of East Anglia (ZSEA), Banham Zoo’s charity, and Plantlife. Their expertise ensured that the planting reflected the area’s distinctive ecology. The efforts of both charities contribute to maintaining biodiversity in habitats that are unique to this part of the UK.

Jo Jones, Brecks Conservation Officer for Plantlife, said: “Field Wormwood grows at so few places in the UK it is a joy to have seen children planting it in their school grounds and have the chance to learn about one of the special rare species of their locality and monitor the plants’ progress.”

Ahead of the event the appointed contractor, Vertas Grounds, prepared the site for planting. Despite freezing temperatures, 16 students enthusiastically joined in with the planting, enjoying a hands-on experience that connected them to nature and their local environment.

This new facility supports the growing number of nursery-aged children and strengthens the relationship between the current school community and its youngest members. The design also includes quiet spaces, dedicated pupil toilets, and a staff workspace, ensuring the building’s functionality.

Talking fondly about the event, Rachel Cade said: “Seeing the children take part in planting was fantastic. This project isn’t just about improving the grounds, it’s about creating a space that supports learning, wellbeing, and biodiversity”.

Funded by Suffolk County Council, the project exemplifies the shared passion of all partners, including the school and Anglian Learning Trust. It highlights how thoughtful design and collaboration can transform outdoor areas into vibrant, educational landscapes that enhance biodiversity.

External works to the play area will continue until Easter 2026. The school’s gardening club will assist in monitoring the growth of the Field Wormwood plants, giving pupils the opportunity to play a meaningful role in the conservation of a rare species.