Garden projects earn pupilsdouble gold in Bloom awards

Simon Bristow

GREEN-fingered pupils have been enjoying the fruits of their labours after winning double gold medals in this year’s Yorkshire in Bloom and Beverley in Bloom awards.

Children at St John of Beverley Roman Catholic Primary School went back in time with one of their gardening projects, creating a Second World War “Dig for Victory” themed garden, complete with a full size Anderson Shelter.

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They won the Young People’s Award for best school in the county, and staff were praised for involving all 160 pupils in gardening projects this year.

Each pupil planted a seed that has either been grown in the school’s vegetable garden, or in its newly purchased poly-tunnel.

Coun Penny Peacock, East Riding Council portfolio holder for children, young people and schools, said: “This is a fantastic achievement and it is always important that children realise that learning doesn’t just take place in the classroom.

“Learning to grow your own food is a rewarding and valuable lesson that can last a lifetime.”

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The school kitchen regularly serves meals that include produce grown by the children.

Headteacher Theresa Rogerson said: “This makes the link between the soil and the plate. Children know how food is produced and they respect it more when they have grown it themselves.”

Year one pupils have been fascinated to see their tomato and cucumber seeds grow into large plants covered in tasty fruits, while in year six the children have grown pumpkins from seeds planted in old tractor tyres.

The school is affiliated to the Royal Horticultural Society’s Campaign for School Gardening.