St Lawrence’s pupils help plant ‘Tree of Hope’

It was a moment rooted in history, when pupils from St Lawrence’s Catholic Primary in Byker took part in a special tree-planting ceremony at The Lighthouse Project.

Twelve children from the school attended the event, where one of 49 Sycamore Gap saplings was planted as part of the National Trust’s Trees of Hope scheme, following the illegal 2023 felling of the Sycamore Gap ‘Robin Hood’ tree at Hadrian’s Wall, which was thought to have been growing there for 120 years or more.

“The Lighthouse Project had been given one of the Sycamore Gap saplings to plant and grow in the Byker community,” said Head of School Charlotte Robson. “St Lawrence’s were invited to attend, along with pupils from Byker Primary.

“As part of the event, the School Council created artwork and poetry explaining the significance and importance of the Sycamore Gap sapling. They were able to articulate, through their artwork and poetry, that the tree being cut down was a tragedy, but that new hope has grown from it.”

Two children from each year group were chosen to represent the school, with one Year 5 pupil nominated to help with the actual planting.

“After the tree planting, the pupils were asked to share some of their artwork,” continued Mrs Robson. “They were also treated to some special cupcakes, made by one of the Lighthouse Project members of staff.

“It was a wonderful event to be invited to, as it celebrates the Byker community. It is also something that will last for many years to come.”