Dervock pupils set for another sweet harvest with Tesco planters
Pupils at William Pinkerton Memorial Primary School, in the village of Dervock, Ballymoney, are preparing to get their hands dirty once again with recycled fruit and vegetable planters donated by Tesco last year.
The planters, made from recycled soft plastics including crisp packets, bread bags and yoghurt tops collected at Tesco stores, were first introduced to the school in 2025 as part of Tesco’s Stronger Starts programme and Fruit & Veg for Schools initiative. The retailer recently announced that the Fruit & Veg for Schools scheme will be expanding from September 2026, to double the number of schools participating.
Last year’s project was a huge hit with pupils, who enjoyed growing their own strawberries and watching them flourish from tiny plants into delicious fruit. Along the way, they learned about healthy eating, sustainability and the journey food takes from garden to their plates.
By combining growing and recycling, the initiative helps children understand how small everyday actions can have a positive impact on the environment.
Zoya Marshall, secretary at William Pinkerton Memorial Primary School, said: “The pupils at William Pinkerton have enjoyed planting seeds and growing fruit so much we even got a new polytunnel to go alongside the Tesco planters, and our next strawberry harvest is on the way!
“The children have learned so much about where food comes from and the importance of growing their own produce. We also receive fruit from Tesco throughout the year, which is always a big hit at snack time. The pupils especially enjoy making fruit smoothies whilst developing healthy eating habits that we hope will stay with them for years to come.”
Tesco’s Fruit & Veg for Schools programme supports schools with higher-than-average free school meal ratios, helping to provide children with access to fresh fruit and vegetables throughout the school year.
Claire De Silva, Head of Communities at Tesco, said: “Tesco Fruit & Veg for Schools is making a significant difference by providing young people in some of the most challenged communities in the UK with more of the essential vitamins and minerals that children need to thrive.
“The planters help schools go even further in encouraging pupils to give healthy foods a try and form habits that will stay with them as they grow up.
“They also teach pupils the value of collecting and recycling the plastic packaging they use at home.”
The planters will continue to play an important role in the school’s growing activities throughout the year, helping pupils develop practical skills while learning more about nutrition, sustainability and the environment.