A NEW urban garden to help Coventry schoolchildren relax, reflect and learn about nature outside the classroom has been unveiled.
St Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School has transformed an unused space into a vibrant garden for children to learn about plants and fork-to-table eating.
The space, which is also helping to boost biodiversity, has been brought to life by pupils in the school’s gardening club with support from Drapers Civil Engineering and Active Tunnelling.
It includes a variety of planters containing marrow, pumpkins, broccoli and other vegetables as well as a vibrant mix of flowers from rhododendrons to gypsophila, alongside bird feeders.
The space, which was officially opened by Pat Garner, Chair of Governors with a blessing from Fr George Bennett, will be used across the curriculum and throughout the seasons for science, storytelling, quiet reflection and practical outdoor learning.
Produce has already been used in cooking lessons and offered to families to use at home.
Malaika in Year 2 said: “We have been growing lots of vegetables to learn about gardening and help our community instead of spending money in the shop.
“It’s a really nice place to spend time in and I’ve enjoyed learning about the plants and the wildlife, birds and insects at school.”
The unveiling took place on the same day as the school’s feast day, which saw parents, carers and the wider school community come together to celebrate the Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.
Teaching Assistant Miss Early, who leads the school’s gardening club and led the garden project, said it was important to remind children where fruit and veg comes from.
She added: “Opening the garden on our school feast day felt incredibly special. The children have loved creating this space and have learnt a lot about flowers, vegetables and nature.
“It has been wonderful to see them take such pride in the space, and we hope the garden will continue to grow and be enjoyed by the children and school community for many years to come.”
