Pupils at St Genevieve’s High School in Belfast are preparing to get their hands dirty once again with the 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.
Since receiving the planters, pupils have had the opportunity to take part in planting and growing activities, helping them learn more about food production, sustainability and healthy eating in a practical and engaging way.
Fionnuala McAllister, Head of Home Economics at St Genevieve’s High School, said:
“We are delighted to continue using the planters as part of our learning activities. They provide pupils with a valuable opportunity to engage with food growing in a hands-on way while learning about sustainability and healthy lifestyles.
“It is so important for young people to understand where their food comes from. When children are involved in planting and caring for fruit and vegetables themselves, they develop a greater appreciation for fresh produce and gain practical skills that support their learning. Initiatives like this help bring classroom lessons to life and encourage positive habits that can benefit them for years to come.”
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 activities throughout the year, helping pupils develop practical skills while learning more about nutrition and the environment.
