Able Canopies Reasons to Try the RHS School Gardening Awards

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Able Canopies Reasons to Try the RHS School Gardening Awards

Encouraging children to get outdoors and connect with nature has a huge impact on learning, wellbeing, and personal growth. The RHS School Gardening Awards is an initiative from the Royal Horticultural Society that supports schools in developing their gardening skills while helping pupils grow a lifelong appreciation for the environment.

If you’re looking for a rewarding way to enhance your outdoor learning provision, here are five reasons to try the RHS School Gardening Awards, and how adding features like school canopies can make your gardening space usable all year round.

1. Promotes Hands-On Learning

The RHS School Gardening Awards encourage pupils to learn by doing. From planting seeds and nurturing vegetables to understanding soil health and biodiversity, children gain hands-on experience that supports science, geography, and wellbeing.

Outdoor gardening helps pupils apply classroom knowledge in real-world contexts, and with a school canopy installed nearby, gardening sessions can continue come rain or shine. Sheltered areas offer a perfect base for potting, planning, and exploring nature whatever the weather.

2. Encourages Teamwork and Responsibility

The Awards programme promotes collaboration, as pupils must work together to care for their garden space. This fosters communication, patience, and shared responsibility — all vital life skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Many schools create designated garden zones with shaded seating areas or covered walkways using freestanding or wall mounted canopies, allowing pupils to work comfortably and safely outdoors in groups throughout the year.

3. Supports Mental Health and Wellbeing

Spending time in nature has proven benefits for children’s mental health. Gardening provides a calm, mindful activity that encourages relaxation and reduces stress. The RHS School Gardening Awards framework makes it simple for schools to incorporate these benefits into everyday learning, helping pupils feel calmer and more focused.

A thoughtfully designed outdoor space, completed with planting beds, shaded rest areas, and a canopy for protection, creates a welcoming environment where children can thrive emotionally as well as academically.

4. Builds Sustainable Thinking

The RHS programme helps children understand sustainability and environmental responsibility. Pupils learn about recycling, composting, water conservation, and protecting wildlife, helping schools build a greener future.

With the addition of sustainable outdoor structures, such as timber-framed or solar-integrated canopies, schools can reinforce the message of environmental care while enhancing the function and beauty of their garden areas.

5. Celebrates Achievement and Growth

Each level of the RHS School Gardening Awards recognises progress and celebrates success, from planning and planting to maintaining and harvesting. Pupils gain certificates for each stage, helping them build confidence and pride in their achievements.

By integrating your gardening area with a sheltered outdoor learning zone, schools can make the space a focal point for events and celebrations, come rain or shine.

Why Combine Gardening and Canopies?

Combining the RHS School Gardening Awards with a well-designed outdoor shelter maximises the use of your school grounds. Canopies offer weather protection, encourage free-flow learning, and provide flexible spaces for lessons, group activities, or garden workshops.

Get Started Today

Taking part in the RHS School Gardening Awards is easy and completely free. You can register your school and find resources on the RHS Campaign for School Gardening website.

To make your outdoor learning area even more versatile, explore our range of School Canopies designed to enhance comfort, accessibility, and creativity in every season.

Able Canopies Ltd. design, manufacture and install canopies and shade structures at schools, nurseries and educational settings to enable year-round Free Flow Outdoor Play and Outdoor Learning.
For more information please contact us

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