The Raglan School
In June 2022, Meristem installed a 60m mixed Green Screen at Raglan Primary School. The key aims of the project were:
To improve the day to day air quality. The school is in close proximity to the busy A10 and research shows that green screens can absorb up to 60% of nitrogen dioxide and (ultra) fine dust particulate concentrations.
Create a privacy / security screen. The main playground is very overlooked from the road and houses opposite. The screens are fully mature on day 1 and creates an instant, natural hedging along the perimeter fence.
Increase the amount of greenery and nature in the playground. Contributing to the local biodiversity.
4 evergreen varieties were used:
Hedera helix Woerner - a hardy dark green ivy with varying leaf shape.
Hedera helix White Ripple - Medium-growing evergreen ivy with grey-green leaves and a silver-white margin.
Hedera helix Glacier - A strong evergreen ivy with grey-green leaves, narrow white edges and silver-grey inner.
Trachelospermum jasminoides - fast-growing climber covered with glossy, dark green leaves often turning bronze-red in winter. From June, it will produce a multitude of fragrant star shaped flowers.
The screens are planted in a continuous hardwood oak planter with an automatic irrigation system to allow for easier maintenance. Our maintenance team will also be looking after the screens free of charge for the first year.
Carefully selected herbs and edible plants were planted at the base of the screens to help the children develop an understanding of where food comes from and to encourage interaction and connection with the soil, plants and the wider natural environment. The area provides an outdoor learning environment and promotes the pupil’s health and well-being.
