Welcome to the Colchester School Garden Competition! 

The Colchester School Garden Competition is back for its third year, and this year it’s at Culver Square! Supported by Anglian Water and RHS Communities, ten primary schools have created incredible gardens that focus on two important themes: water conservation and mental wellbeing.

Come and see these displays for yourself starting on 17th July! Explore the gardens, vote for your favourite, and help your chosen school win a School Gardening Success Plan and other exciting prizes. Voting is open from July 17th to September 10th.

Teaching children about water conservation in the garden instills a sense of responsibility for the planet and encourages eco-friendly habits from a young age. Gardening itself offers numerous mental well-being benefits for children. Spending time outdoors, digging in the soil, and caring for plants can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase feelings of happiness and fulfillment. Gardening provides a sensory-rich experience that stimulates the senses and promotes mindfulness, allowing children to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

Guided by CBBC Blue Peter Gardener Lee Connelly, The Skinny Jean Gardener, we also invite you to join us for a celebration mini-festival at Culver Square on Wednesday, August 21st, 10 am – 3 pm. These gardens serve as a platform for schools, teachers, and students to start on or continue their gardening journey, and we hope they inspire you to embrace gardening at home this summer holiday.

Already know your favourite? Vote below! Need a refresher? Keep scrolling for pictures!