There was plenty to celebrate at school already this term as Monkton pupils reaped the rewards of their hard work in the school garden.
The school garden, named Tom’s Garden, produced a bumper crop of delicious fruit and vegetables, including rhubarb, cherry tomatoes, pears and apples. There was even a crop of rather unusual ‘zombie pumpkins’!
The fresh produce was shared with the wider school community, with parents invited to take whatever they wanted as they collected their children at the end of the school day. The colourful harvest proved a popular offering and was a wonderful way for the children to see how their efforts could benefit others.
Sam Vesty, Science Lead and teacher responsible for the school garden, said: “Gardening is a great way to show children how to nurture and care for something so that it can flourish. It was a great farm-to-fork experience for them, and they were all very proud of their accomplishments.”
From planting seeds to harvesting the finished crops, pupils have enjoyed a hands-on experience of growing their own food during curriculum time, forest school and even during their play. The project has provided valuable opportunities to learn about science, nature and sustainability, while also developing patience, responsibility and teamwork.
Most importantly, the garden has shown the children that with a little care, time and dedication, something small can grow into something truly special — and, in this case, something delicious to share with the whole school community!
