Isca Academy students have been recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) for their blossoming gardening efforts, proudly achieving their Level 1 Gardening Award.

The achievement marks a significant first step in the school’s mission to promote sustainability, outdoor learning, and wellbeing through gardening. The award came with a bundle of goodies, including seeds for the year ahead, an inspiring book on the power of gardening for mental and physical health, and a beautiful certificate which now takes pride of place in school.

But this is just the beginning, now working towards their Level 2 RHS Award, the green-fingered team at Isca have exciting plans ahead, including collecting wildflower seeds for their new flower bed, designing and building raised beds for growing produce, planning a sensory garden to support wellbeing, and creating a dedicated planting and potting workspace.

As part of the Ted Wragg Trust, Isca Academy is committed to enriching students’ lives through unique opportunities and gardening is proving to be a powerful tool for learning, creativity and health.

The school is still welcoming donations to support the next stage of the project. Items on the wish list include soil, gardening tools, materials for raised beds, and any spare seeds. Any donations can be dropped off at reception.

Mrs Vicki Joyce, Headteacher at Isca Academy said:

“This award is a wonderful recognition of the hard work and enthusiasm shown by our incredible students, and Mrs Malton who’s been the driving force behind this project. Gardening is not just about growing plants, it’s about nurturing resilience, teamwork and wellbeing. We’re so proud of our students and can’t wait to see what they grow next.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“It’s inspiring to see students connecting with nature in such meaningful ways. Initiatives like this don’t just make schools greener, they cultivate life skills, pride and a sense of purpose. Huge congratulations to the whole team at Isca for leading the way in this area.”