The project saw 30 S2 Craft, Design and Technology (CDT) pupils working in groups to create 12 planters. Six of the planters have been housed at Cala’s Cammo Meadows development in Edinburgh. The remaining six have been donated to nearby community groups, including the Corstorphine Dementia Project and Oaklands School, to help brighten up the local area.

Cala Homes (East) initiated the project as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting the communities in which it builds, donating both building materials and tools to The Royal High School. The housing developer contributed more than 108 metres of specially treated timber as well as panel saws, staple guns, small electric chop saws, glue and screws. All the tools and materials requested by the school as part of the project were used under teacher supervision.

Mr Davy Allan, CDT teacher at The Royal High School, who oversaw the design and running of the project, said: “This project has been hugely beneficial for the pupils who have acquired new practical skills during the course of building these planters. Pupils were taught how to measure and mark accurately, how to cut complex angles safely and how to apply appropriate finishes to ensure materials are weather resistant.

“Due to the scale of the final product, it also gave pupils an opportunity to work collaboratively to physically cut, measure and move the units around the workshop. They also had to work as a team to get the planters assembled correctly. This experience will help these young pupils understand how these practical skills are implemented in the real world.”

Philip Hogg, sales and marketing director from Cala Homes (East), said: “We are delighted to work with The Royal High School on this planter project. Not only does the project provide positive learning outcomes for the pupils, it has resulted in 12 stunning planters which have been placed at key locations across Northwest Edinburgh for the local community to enjoy.”

Once assembled, Cala Homes (East) worked with its landscapers Land Technology to fill the planters with a range of eye-catching flowers and plants. The mixture of hardy evergreen and bright coloured perennials will ensure longevity, while providing food and shelter for insects.