Our School Council recently had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Lighthouse Project youth club at St Michael’s Church, where something very special was taking place – the planting of a sapling grown from the original Sycamore Gap Tree.

Before the event, the children had been learning about the history and significance of the Sycamore Gap Tree, what happened to it, and how new hope has grown from the 39 saplings that were successfully produced from it. They then shared their learning with their peers, helping everyone understand why this tree has meant so much to so many people.

We were delighted that our local youth club was successful in their bid to receive one of these saplings. During the celebration, Bobby-Jay and Cara were chosen to help plant the young tree in the youth club grounds – a moment they will surely remember for years to come.

Meanwhile, Nadia and Harvey shared some beautiful poetry they had written, reflecting on hope, growth and the future of the tree. All of the children also created thoughtful posters, each including their wishes for the sapling as it grows.

The planting was marked with a lovely celebration attended by many members of the community and local stakeholders. It was a proud moment for our School Council to be part of such a meaningful event and to contribute to the story of this very special tree.

We look forward to watching the sapling grow and thrive for many years to come – a lasting symbol of hope, community and new beginnings.