What
What happens when a concrete and astroturf school grounds becomes a buzzing, blooming wildlife haven? On a sunny day in spring 2025, Hackney Mayor Caroline Woodley, Deputy Mayor Antoinette Bramble and Cllr Sarah Young (Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment and Transport) visited Daubeney Primary School to find out. Guided by students, teachers, and the community conservation charity Natural Neighbours, they explored what’s possible when nature is brought back to the heart of urban communities.
Where
The visit was at Natural Neighbours’ first project at Daubeney School; previously dominated by plastic grass and asphalt, and now home to a thriving wildlife pond, pollinator-friendly gardens, playground trees and a growing sense of community connection. The transformation was made possible through a unique collaboration between the school community and Natural Neighbours, supported by families, teachers, volunteers, and local organisers.
“All children should have access to the calming and stimulating wonders of nature in their everyday lives,”said Mayor Woodley during her visit.
During the visit, children proudly led the mayoral team through the revitalised green spaces, pointing out pond wildlife, telling stories about the transformation of the space, and sharing how much joy the natural areas now bring to their daily school life. The school’s Headteacher, Gregory Logan, explained how these spaces have supported student learning, mental wellbeing, and a greater connection to the natural world.
Why
A Model for Hackney — and Beyond
Natural Neighbours’ work at Daubeney is part of a growing movement to restore nature where people live, work, learn, and play. The project shows what’s possible when residents, schools, and local leaders work together. As we face climate and biodiversity challenges, these local, joyful, people-powered actions remind us that changing the world can and does start at home.
What Achieved
This transformation wasn’t just a project — it was and continues to be a shared effort and a shared joy. Families, neighbours and the school community came together, bringing energy, care and commitment to shape a space that benefits everyone.
“This is about more than building a pond and planting flowers — it’s about building lasting community connections and planting a sense of belonging and wellbeing” said Julian Kirby, founder of Natural Neighbours.
Following the visit, Mayor Woodley and Cllr Sarah Young (Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment and Transport) spoke of their ambition for more schools across the borough to benefit from outdoor spaces like this — places that support both learning and wellbeing.
