intu Milton Keynes surprises schools across Milton Keynes with tree adoption planting

This week, six schools across Milton Keynes returned from the Easter break to learn that intu Milton Keynes and The Parks Trust had been working together to plant their adopted oak tree near to their school grounds.

In March last year, intu Milton Keynes launched a tree adoption programme to ensure the heritage of the Midsummer Oak remained in Milton Keynes. Schools were invited to adopt a sapling tree, which was grown from harvested acorns from the Midsummer Oak nearly ten years ago, and record its growth, changes to the tree and wildlife it attracts for years to come; forming an important part of the school’s curriculum.

Falconhurst School, Eaglestone; Giles Brook Primary, Tattenhoe; St Mary and St Giles Junior, Stony Stratford; New Bradwell School; Olney Middle School and Olney Infant School each have oak trees planted near them on Parks Trust land.

“It’s important for intu Milton Keynes to ensure the legacy of the Midsummer Oak remains a part of Milton Keynes’ history for many years to come and for us to support projects that reach out to the heart of the local community,” says the general manager at intu Milton Keynes, Shelley Peppard.

She adds: “The tree adoption programme is a fantastic way to ensure young people in Milton Keynes remember the Midsummer Oak, its history as well as its future. By working with each of the chosen schools, we will continue to support and monitor the programme and share the findings for all to enjoy.”

In 2007, hundreds of acorns were harvested from the oak tree and, with the support of The Parks Trust, over 100 oaks are now flourishing in open fields across Milton Keynes.
Last week it was announced that the Midsummer Oak will be removed at the end of April and intu Milton Keynes will create a community events area for music, dance, theatre and the arts.