Why Gardening Should Be Part of the Primary School Curriculum

Imagine a classroom without walls, where children learn by digging, planting, and exploring nature. That’s the power of gardening in primary education. As our society becomes more screen-based and disconnected from the environment, it’s more important than ever that schools give children a chance to reconnect with the natural world. That’s why gardening belongs on the primary school curriculum.

Gardening isn’t just about growing plants. It teaches science through life cycles, biology, and weather. It supports maths through measuring growth, counting seeds, and managing space. It improves literacy when children keep garden journals, write instructions, or label plants. It even connects with art, geography, and environmental studies.

More than that, gardening supports mental health and wellbeing. Children become calmer and more focused when they spend time outside. It builds confidence, patience, and teamwork. It helps children feel accomplished in a way traditional classroom work sometimes doesn’t. With increasing concern about youth mental health, school gardens offer a natural, hands-on solution.

Gardening also addresses real-world issues. Children learn about sustainability, food security, and climate change in a tangible way. It nurtures eco-conscious citizens who understand how to care for the planet.

Even a small growing area in a playground can have a big impact. Schools don’t need huge budgets—just a little space and the passion to grow something meaningful.

By including gardening in the school day, we equip children with lifelong skills and a deeper understanding of the world. Let’s dig in and make gardening a core part of primary education—because the best lessons sometimes start with soil on your hands.