PUPILS at a Kilmacolm school have started their own orchard to support local families in need.
The project is part of the 'Grow Your Own Foodbank' initiative at St Columba's School, aimed at helping families in need while promoting environmental care among the students.
For the past seven years, the school's gardening club has been transforming unused areas of the school into gardens full of flowers and vegetables.
They meet for two hours every Thursday and Friday after school, and their hard work helps to supply food banks in Inverclyde.
The club, with 15 members from different year groups, is not only helping families in need but also teaching students essential gardening skills.
The new orchard is the latest part of the 'Grow Your Own Foodbank' project, led by sixth-year student Robbie Guthrie.
With the guidance of depute rector Mick McLaughlin, the pupils secured grant funding from the Tree Council's Branching Out Fund to make their plan a reality.
In March, they planted 15 fruit trees, all recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society as pollinator plants.
Thomas Crawford and Robbie Guthrie.(Image: Jamie Simpson)
The trees will provide nectar for pollinating insects and support biodiversity, as well as bearing fruit in the future.
Mick said: "We have established a partnership with the Inverclyde Homeless Forum to donate our future harvests to support those in need.
"I'm incredibly proud of what our young members have achieved.
"This project has shown our pupils the power of giving back.
"They've planned, planted, and nurtured this orchard, knowing it will one day provide food for local families.
"It's taught them that what they grow here at school can make a real difference close to home."
Established by former pupil Radovan Sarafilovic, the gardening club has significantly grown over the years.
Their efforts support learning in science, biology, geography, and citizenship, contributing to the school's Green Flag Eco-Schools status.
Victoria Reilly, the school's rector, said: "I am delighted to support the members of the school's gardening club in their desire to establish an orchard of pear and apple trees in an underused area of our school grounds."
The school also has its own beehive for pollination and is expecting a second one soon.
Robbie Guthrie, left, and Thomas Crawford. (Image: Jamie Simpson)
Mr McLaughlin added: "Working outdoors has an incredible impact on our pupils' mental wellbeing.
"It teaches teamwork, responsibility, and gives them space to think while making a tangible difference to the planet and their community."
The school is now inviting families interested in learning more about the school's work on innovation, sustainability, and community spirit to attend their open day on November 8.