‘The children love it,’ Psalm 23-inspired garden is big hit in primary school

Inspired by the @Psalm23Garden a team of keen gardeners has built a Psalm 23-inspired garden for the children at All Saints’ Church of England Primary School in Marple.

It features a bubbling pool with seating for outdoor assemblies, planting in the shape of a cross and even planting in a disused boat!

‘The children love it,’ said Sarah Holton, who was part of the team who created the garden. ‘They are excited to go outside into it.’

‘It brought together the community, the school and the parents and children. It’s been amazing really. It felt as if God was doing it, rather than us.’

She added, ‘Because of the pandemic, we wanted the children to have some verses to hang onto at this point in their lives. We were struck by how Psalm 23 was so relevant. In six verses it allows the children to feel sadness and yet to know that God is with them in it all.’

The school’s assistant headteacher, Kate Noble, said, ‘It has enabled pupils and staff to become recharged and rebalanced, creating a real place to go and reflect. Everyone can encounter God, discover God and find peace and wellbeing amongst a hidden paradise.’

She added, ‘I am so incredibly proud of this and its potential to help many children currently at All Saints’ C of E Primary School, as well as those who attend in years to come, to develop their spirituality.’