Planting trees for the Queen’s Green Canopy
Junior Soldiers from Harrogate’s Army Foundation College planted six Magnolia trees to launch a Royal green initiative across the country.
Junior Soldiers from Harrogate’s Army Foundation College acted as gardeners to help to launch the Queen’s Green Canopy. This is a campaign to “plant a tree for the Jubilee,” marking Her Majesty’s 70 years on the throne.
The project will create a network of trees, avenues, copses and woodlands in honour of the Platinum Jubilee. The Queen has planted more than 1,500 trees all over the world during her reign and has spoken alongside Sir David Attenborough of the importance of trees in Earth’s future.
The Magnolia trees planted at the college are also in memory of Captain Sir Tom Moore. These trees, native to Asia, are a fitting tribute to Captain Tom, who was the Honorary Colonel of the College before his sad passing, and served in India and Burma during World War Two.
The Army Foundation College is a training centre for under 19’s in the British Army, giving Junior Soldiers an all-round set of skills. The Army Foundation College Harrogate offers the only Junior Entry Phase 1 training in the country.
Read about some of the Junior Soldiers who planted the trees:
Junior Soldier Chris, 16, from Anglesey, North Wales
Chris went to school at Ysgol Uwchradd Bodedern and hopes to join the Parachute Regiment when he finishes training at the college.
How did it feel to plant the trees for Captain Tom and the Queen’s Green Canopy?
“It was something completely different, but that is what is great about the Army — all the different experiences you get. I am proud to plant a tree for the Queen, it’s not something I ever thought I would do, but I am honoured to do it.”
Why did you join the Army?
“I thought it would be way better than an office job, I think I am more of a practical person so it’s great to be outside doing practical military training. My grandad was in the Army so hearing stories about his career made me also want to be a soldier. It was a surprise that there was so much education while at training, but it is so much better than school. The teacher make the subjects easy to understand and there are only eight other people in the class which makes it easier to listen.”
What challenges have you encountered in your training and how did you overcome them?
“The first training exercise, the weather was terrible. But we all worked together to encourage each other and looking back we are proud that we got through it.”
What do your friends and family think about you being in the Army?
“They were a little worried at the start but have been able to see how much I am enjoying it and are really supportive. My grandad was in the Army and I remember being told about all the traveling and adventure he had so I’m looking forward to that side of the Army.”
Junior Soldier Bradley, 16, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire
Bradley went to school at Wingfield Academy and wants to join the Yorkshire Regiment when he finishes training at Army Foundation College Harrogate.
How did it feel to plant the trees for Captain Tom and the Queen’s Green Canopy?
“It was amazing to be given this opportunity, as I have only been in the Army for a short period of time and I am already doing things that matter. It was an honour to plant a tree on behalf of the Queen, I don’t think many people can say they have done that.”
What are you most proud of from your time at Army Foundation College so far?
“I have seen massive improvements to my fitness. When I started my initial training, I was not the fittest, but by putting in the hard work and effort during the physical development lessons, I have been able to improve. At the start I could only just finish a 2km run, but now I can easily do 2km and get a quick time. I actually enjoy fitness now and do lots of running in my spare time as I know a soldier needs to keep up their fitness.”
What are you most looking forward to over the next year and why?
“My main aim is to get to the Graduation Parade, and hopefully my friends and family can come and watch. I will have been in initial training for almost 11 months so it will be great to complete it and then head to my next part of training.”
What do your friends and family think about you being in the Army?
“They are really proud and think it is fantastic that I have used my determination to start a new career. They have been really supportive throughout my application to join the Army and also while I have been going through training.”
