fp Turks and Caicos

What started as a simple idea has transformed into a brilliant structure when the Enid Capron Primary School Environmental Club set up their eco-friendly greenhouse and vegetable garden on a vacant lot on the school premises.

The Providenciales-based school started construction of the greenhouse at the beginning of the academic year after gathering donations for building materials and other support from the community. The latest was from Rock of Jesus Ministry led by Philip Simmons, a noted farm grower.

“It is really fitting when Mr. Simmons came in and gave help us a helping hand by showing us what to do and how we can have our produce,” said Terrence Hibbert, club adviser.

Once the greenhouse and vegetable garden becomes well established, Hibbert expects great benefits from it.
He also said the project fits well with the school’s goals to find creative solutions to climate change and encourage healthy, local food options.

“The students who built this greenhouse or use it to grow food will gain the skills to do the same thing in their own backyards,” Hibbert said.

“We could have students learning to grow their own food and studying the plants, then cooking with the fresh produce. It could really enhance many parts of our curriculum,” he said.

“Healthy living is really good, and we can produce these goods, help with our canteen and probably sell to the community.”

The club started the project by researching what a greenhouse is, how they are best maintained, and what accessories are need to make a greenhouse function on a daily basis. After gathering all their research materials, and with help from Principal Rachel Taylor, the project commenced.

At present, club members are on a roster to check the garden and keep it in good condition at all times and ensure that the greenhouse functions properly.

The students have pledged to make a plan for recruiting and promoting their club for the next school year.