By Erin Martin
Arbor Week 2025 blossomed into a celebration of growth, learning, and community, thanks to the heartfelt efforts of the GCBR’s environmental awareness team, Marinda van As and Erin Martin. Their vision and dedication brought together learners, educators, and young children across multiple towns within the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve to plant 177 trees, nurture vegetable gardens, and foster a deeper connection with nature. By turning simple actions into lasting lessons, this initiative greened schoolyards and community spaces while fostering responsibility and a connection to nature in the hearts of the next generation.
Planting Hope at De Waalville Primary
Arbor Week kicked off on 1 September with an exciting outreach at De Waalville Primary School, where 138 Grade 7 learners gathered to celebrate the power of trees and learn about the vital role they play in our environment. The highlight of the day was planting 13 trees across the school grounds. This hands-on activity honoured Arbor Week and gave learners the chance to physically connect with nature. Each tree planted represents a living reminder of their contribution toward a healthier planet.
Little Explorers and Little Angels Learn Big Lessons
The next day, 2 September, we brought the Arbor Week spirit to Little Explorers Daycare, where 31 children helped plant 11 trees. Although still very young, the children threw themselves into the activity, learning in a fun and practical way that caring for nature starts with simple actions. Some of the children will remain at the daycare for several years and will have the joy of watching their trees grow alongside them. Later in the day, at Little Angels Daycare, we shifted the focus to food security by planting 32 vegetable seedlings with the children. This activity taught them where food comes from and encouraged a sense of responsibility for looking after their garden.
Growing Trees and Young Minds in Still Bay
On 3 September, our Arbor Week celebrations continued at Pikkewouter Daycare in Still Bay, where we met with 30 enthusiastic little ones. The day began with a short, easy-to-understand talk about why trees are important, followed by the planting of 8 trees. This gave the children a memorable, hands-on way to connect with the environment. Beyond the daycare visit, 62 additional trees were planted at four locations across Still Bay, further adding to the local landscape and leaving a lasting environmental impact.
A Day of Planting and Creativity in Albertinia
4 September was a full day of activities in Albertinia, where our team, joined by four MAB Youth members, visited Albertinia High School to work with 38 Grade 11 learners. Together, we planted 35 trees across the school grounds and painted four large planters that were later filled with trees. This creative touch encouraged learners to take pride by beautifying and greening their school. The day continued at Oker Primary School, where 94 energetic Grade 1 learners, divided into small groups, received a simple demonstration on how to plant trees. Their excitement was contagious as they planted 23 trees, leaving behind a lasting mark on their school grounds.
Tiny Hands, Big Impact at Feëtjieland Daycare
Arbor Week celebrations carried on into 5 September with a visit to Feëtjieland Daycare, where we spent the day with 13 young learners. Together, we planted vegetables, giving the children their first taste of what it takes to grow their own food. The activity sparked curiosity and joy, showing them that vegetables require care and patience before they reach our plates.
Teamwork in Action at Kairos Secondary
Our Arbor Week journey concluded on 8 September at Kairos Secondary School. Although the event had to be postponed due to unprepared planting holes, the delay did nothing to discourage the learners. We engaged with 51 Life Science students from Grades 10 and 11, who showed incredible teamwork and dedication as they planted 25 trees. Their energy and determination turned the day into a truly memorable experience, leaving everyone inspired and motivated to continue caring for their environment.
Growing More Than Just Trees
Arbor Week 2025 was more than a week of planting, it was a celebration of connection, growth, and hope. Each tree and vegetable planted represents a promise for the future, not only for our environment but for the young hands that placed them in the soil. Watching learners and daycare children, take part with such excitement reminded us why this work matters: every seedling is a lesson in patience, care, and responsibility. As these trees grow tall, they will stand as living reminders that a greener tomorrow starts with the actions we take today.