Ardnahoe Nursery School

Carefully sowing seeds

Giving plants in pots a drink of water

Look how long the seedling root is!

Demonstrating drilling drainage holes in pots

This is how the drainage holes work

Harvesting our compost to use

🌿What was your favourite part of creating your garden?

My favourite part of creating our garden was seeing the children's excitement as the seeds they planted began to grow. The awe and wonder on their faces as they observed changes each day was truly special. The children took responsibility for watering and caring for the plants. When some needed support, they carefully selected and tested suitable stakes. The garden encouraged curiosity, problem-solving, teamwork and a deeper connection with nature and how living things grow.

🌿Did you face any challenges and how did you respond to them?

We faced a few challenges during our garden project. A neighbouring extension meant we could not safely access our gardening area for a period of time. To ensure learning continued, we used our own outdoor space to provide planting opportunities and care for plants. We also experienced delays due to staff shortages and varying attendance levels when working with the school. We adapted by being flexible and making the most of every opportunity to continue developing the garden with the children.

🌿What did you learn whilst creating your garden?

Creating our garden allowed the children to learn across many areas of the curriculum through meaningful, hands-on experiences. They learned about caring for living things and the importance of responsibility as they nurtured plants from seed to growth. Using the book A Good Place encouraged discussions about creating safe, positive environments. Staff learned the value of adaptability, problem-solving and resilience, while also developing our gardening knowledge to continue this work with future children.

🌿Did you have any links with your local community or a Pocket Garden mentor whilst creating your garden?

Working with our local primary school strengthened relationships with both new children and those who had previously attended our nursery. It was a full-circle moment to welcome former children back and hear about their school experiences. We also worked with Pocket Garden mentors during the design process, whose advice helped shape our final plans. Parents were invited to our annual seed sowing event, where children planted potatoes, carrots, radishes and lettuce together.

🌿What will happen to your garden after the competition has finished?

The garden will remain a valued part of our outdoor learning environment long after the competition ends. Children will continue to care for and develop the space, planting new flowers, fruit and vegetables throughout the year. The garden will support ongoing learning about nature, sustainability and responsibility. We plan to build on what we have created, ensuring future children can enjoy, learn from and contribute to the garden for years to come.

🌿Is there anything else you would like to share?

We discovered some bees have made a home in a hole near our pocket garden. The children have really embraced this and have discussed how we can help take care of them. Our bee hydration station has been very popular among our new residents. We also really appreciate the opportunity we have been given to showcase our work. Thanks to Eve for all her help, guidance and support.