School tree planting kicks-off city's Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations
Posted on Thursday 3rd March 2022
Newport schools are marking the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee by planting trees across the city.
All schools were offered the opportunity to plant a tree as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy project which has encouraged people from across the United Kingdom to ‘plant a tree for the Jubilee’.
Five Newport schools were chosen to hold special ceremonies to also mark the anniversary of their official opening in 1953 – the year of the coronation of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.
Dignitaries including the Lord and Vice Lord Lieutenants for Gwent, the Mayor and Mayoress of Newport, the High Sheriff of Gwent, and the Leader of Newport City Council visited Maesglas, Alway, Gaer, St Julian’s and Malpas Court primary schools.
As well as unveiling the new trees and Jubilee plaques, pupils from each school performed for their guests and were presented with school awards.
Gwent Music, who provide music tuition and services across the city and region, worked with the schools to develop bespoke songs. They have also composed a special Queen’s Platinum Jubilee piece of music which will be used at Jubilee events over the next few months.
Councillor Jane Mudd, Leader of the council, said: “This has been an excellent way to kick-off the Jubilee celebrations in Newport. We want to encourage celebration across our city and communities to come together. Schools are at the heart of our communities, so it felt very appropriate for our students to help us mark such a momentous occasion.
“Planting these trees in the grounds of all schools will not only be a lasting reminder of the Platinum Jubilee and 20 years of Newport being a city but will also improve the school environment and our wider ambitions under our carbon neutral strategy.”
A commemorative booklet has also been produced reflecting on the 70 years of the five Jubilee schools featuring before and after pictures, major achievements and famous pupils.
For more information on Jubilee celebrations in Newport and how to get involved, including advice on street parties and road closures, visit www.newport.gov.uk/jubilee