Priti Patel has launched her “Get Witham Growing” campaign in schools across the Witham constituency, an initiative designed to encourage pupils to develop gardening and horticultural skills while supporting their wider learning and development.
Originally launched in 2023, “Get Witham Growing” was created to help children build an appreciation for nature and the outdoors, while experiencing the enjoyment of learning about the different types of vegetables and flowers that can be grown at school. The initiative also provides an opportunity to support pupils in developing practical skills and fostering an early interest in horticulture.
To mark this year’s launch, Priti first visited Stisted Church of England Primary Academy, where she encouraged pupils to take part in gardening activities and to get involved in their school garden club. During the visit, she presented students with a growing basket filled with a variety of vegetable and plant seeds to support their outdoor learning, including seeds grown in the Royal Gardens.
Pupils at Stisted shared their experiences of gardening at school, speaking about what they have learnt and their school’s gardening club, as well as their recent class project learning about the growth and development of caterpillars, with each student looking after their own.
“Get Witham Growing” builds on the success of previous years, with schools across the constituency taking part. The campaign also forms part of Priti’s wider engagement with local schools, alongside Priti’s long-running “Get Witham Reading” campaign, which is now entering its 15th year and will be relaunched later this year.
Priti Patel said:
“It was a pleasure to launch this year’s Get Witham Growing campaign and to visit Stisted Church of England Primary Academy. I had a great time meeting pupils, hearing what they have learnt, and seeing the enthusiasm they have for their gardening activities.
“I originally launched Get Witham Growing to encourage children to learn gardening and horticultural skills, helping to promote an appreciation of nature and the outdoors, while experiencing the joy of growing plants themselves.
“It is fantastic to see how much pupils enjoy getting involved, whether through planting seeds or taking part in their school garden clubs.
“Gardening is a great way to support children’s development, helping them to build practical skills and understanding of gardening. I look forward to seeing more schools across the constituency take part in the campaign this year.”
