A YOUTUBE star has surprised Coventry pupils who grow their fruit and vegetables for school meals and foodbanks with a top gardening award.
Gardening expert Huw Richards presented GARDENA’s Kids on the Plot trophy to pupils and teachers from Earlsdon Primary School, who grow pumpkins, rhubarb, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, peppers, leeks and more on their two allotment plots.
They helped to raise £7,000 to build a learning shelter so they could continue with gardening lessons all year round, and also created a pond, wormery and compost heap to improve biodiversity.
Head teacher Rebecca Bollands hailed the community allotment, which they launched two years ago, as one of the ‘best things we’ve ever done’.
She said: “It’s absolutely phenomenal. Pupils who have struggled with concentration in class come here and really benefit from being outdoors and get stuck in with digging and learning about plants.
“We grow fruit and vegetables for school meals, including chard for spaghetti bolognese, and we created a library exhibition of gardening photos in our new shed.
“Our allotment visits have become a big part of school life and it’s amazing that we’re number one in the country.”
Bestselling author Huw presented the award as part of GARDENA’s Top of the Plots competition, and offered the kids tips on how to plant strawberry lemonade tulips.
He said: “This is an amazing project. I was blown away.
“Visiting the finalists and exploring their vibrant allotments and gardens served as a reminder for me of the power of gardening, and how much joy it brings.
“If you’ve been inspired by this year’s Top of the Plots winners, this is your sign to get planting. Start with one seed, and begin to cultivate your green space. Maybe next year I’ll be visiting your new plot!”
Howard Scott, GARDENA UK Country Manager, said: “We’ve been captivated by this school’s incredible allotment which showcases the joy of cultivating your produce and connecting with nature.
“Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this competition has celebrated gardening greatness, with more than 100 entries across the country, and we can’t wait for next year already.”
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