A BORDERS primary school has won an award for getting pupils out in nature.

Priorsford Primary School in Peebles was joint winner of the Crown Estate Scotland Schools’ Trophy at Scotland's Finest Woods Awards 2022 – joined by Grandtully Primary School from Perthshire.

The award is given to schools who have ensured pupils learn and play outdoors, as well as becoming familiar with their local woodlands.

Award judges said Priorsford was a “superb example of how a school can take learning and play outdoors plus make connections to the local woods”.

Priorsford pupils and staff received their award at this year's Highland Show in Ingliston from Màiri McAllan MSP, Minister for Environment and Land Reform.

Michelle Fraser, forest school leader at Priorsford Primary School, said: “Having worked with children I have seen the huge benefit that getting them outside the classroom can have on their mental and physical wellbeing.

"We set up our Forest School project as a way of helping children to build confidence, learn about nature and build connections with the natural world and with each other.

“Our Nurture and Nature project took out small groups of children to work on different skill sets.

"It gave them an opportunity to talk and address any emotional and wellbeing concerns that they may have had but also to build connections with each other and learn about nature, which given the pandemic has been even more important.”

Ms McAllan added: “The Awards celebrate the achievements and hard work of all those who create and care for our forests and woodlands, and instil a love of trees in our young people.

“This year, the judges’ results shine a special spotlight on young people of both nursery and school ages, farm and community woodlands - and excellence in creating new productive and native woods.

“I’d like to congratulate all the winners who are keeping Scotland’s woodlands the finest they can be.”

Also at the awards, W Laird and Sons for Netherurd Home Farm, Blyth Bridge were highly commended in the Lilburn Trophy for Farm Woodlands category.