The RHS School Gardening Awards are designed to encourage and support schools in developing their gardening programs. We have been awarded Level One, Two, Three, Four and Five.
Level One
Focus: Starting out on the gardening journey.
- Requirements: Schools need to demonstrate an understanding of the benefits of gardening, ensure the growing space is accessible, and start gardening activities.
- Rewards: 'Your Wellbeing Garden' book, a selection of seeds, a certificate, and a digital logo.
Benefits for Pupils:
- Learning about the environment and sustainability.
- Improving emotional and physical wellbeing.
- Building life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and confidence
Level Two
Focus: Gardening to support wellbeing and developing new growing skills.
- Requirements: Schools should use pupils' ideas to guide gardening plans and continue developing gardening skills.
- Rewards: £50 National Garden Gift Voucher, 'How to Garden the Low Carbon Way' book, a selection of seeds, a certificate, and a digital logo
Benefits for Pupils:
- Enhancing creativity and problem-solving skills.
- Encouraging healthy eating habits.
- Fostering a sense of responsibility and achievement
Level Three
Focus: Planet-friendly gardening and maintaining plant health.
- Requirements: Schools need to grow a range of plants and focus on keeping them healthy.
- Rewards: £50 National Garden Gift Voucher, 'The Little Book of Wild Gardening', a selection of seeds, a certificate, and a digital logo
Benefits for Pupils:
- Understanding the importance of biodiversity.
- Developing practical gardening skills.
- Promoting environmental stewardship
These awards not only provide structured goals for schools but also help pupils gain valuable skills and knowledge that contribute to their overall development and wellbeing.
Level Four
Focus: Sharing gardening knowledge and strengthening community links.
Requirements:
Schools should involve the wider community in their gardening projects. This might include sharing plants, produce, or gardening tips with local groups, families, or other schools. Pupils should take on more responsibility for planning and maintaining garden areas throughout the year.
Rewards:
£100 National Garden Gift Voucher, RHS Gardening for Mindfulness book, a selection of seeds, a certificate, and a digital logo
Benefits for Pupils:
- Building leadership and communication skills
- Strengthening community connections and teamwork
- Gaining a sense of pride and ownership in their shared achievements
Level Five
Focus: Sustaining a thriving, inspirational school garden and embedding gardening across the curriculum.
Requirements:
Schools must show that gardening is an integral part of school life. The garden should be well maintained, pupil-led, and used regularly for learning across subjects. Schools should also share their gardening successes and inspire others to get involved.
Rewards:
£200 National Garden Gift Voucher, RHS Complete Gardener book, a selection of seeds, a certificate, and a digital logo
Benefits for Pupils:
- Applying gardening knowledge across subjects such as science, art, and design
- Taking on leadership roles and mentoring younger pupils
- Deepening their connection to nature and commitment to sustainability