IRVINE primary pupils are helping grow a variety of healthy fruit and vegetables in their impressive school garden.

The children and staff at Elderbank Primary have teamed up with parent Yousif Al Ahmed to create a garden inside a polytunnel.

The initiative, started a few years ago with the help of the Pupil Equity Fund, has flourished over time.

Elderbank pupils have been growing healthy foods in the school garden (Image: North Ayrshire Council) Headteacher Jacqueline Robertson said: "Yousif developed the polytunnel with the children, and they have been growing produce and then using it within the school to cook.

"It has been great for the children to grow their own produce, and for them to see the whole process – from seed to plate."

Yousif, a talented gardener from Syria, has been involved in the project since last year.

Yousif Al Ahmed has been involved in the project since 2023 (Image: North Ayrshire Council) He has grown a variety of produce, including chillies, tangerines, white grapes, broccoli, tomatoes, onions, garlic, parsley, spinach, and cucumbers.

He said: "It is good for all of the children to learn about how fruit and vegetables are grown, and is especially good for children with sensory needs – like my own son, who has autism and is an Elderbank pupil."

They've created a garden inside a polytunnel (Image: North Ayrshire Council) Earlier this year, Yousif was recognised for his efforts with an Adult Volunteer Recognition Award for Outstanding Contribution from The Ayrshire Community Trust.

Pupils Cody Lee, 10, and Charlie, 11, are among those who enjoy getting their hands dirty in the polytunnel.

Yousif was given the Adult Volunteer Recognition Award earlier this year(Image: North Ayrshire Council) Cody Lee said: "We love growing pumpkins, apples, and oranges in the garden."

Councillor Shaun Macaulay, cabinet member for education and young people, said: "Congratulations to Jacqueline and her team, Yousif, and the children for growing such wonderful produce here in North Ayrshire.

"I think many people will be surprised that things like grapes and tangerines can thrive in our climate.

"This project shows what can be achieved when people of all ages – and from all walks of life – work together."

The initiative is an example of Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which states that children have the right to healthy food.