First RHS Young School Gardener announced
16 July 2012
Lucas Hatch from Woodbridge in Suffolk, has been named the first RHS Young School Gardener of the Year for impressing judges with his flair, enthusiasm and knowledge of gardening.
16 finalists were chosen following a preliminary round involving schoolteachers nominating pupils. Each of the finalists’ schools was given a digital camcorder to make films of the finalists, who were asked to answer eight questions. The judges, including acclaimed plantsman Peter Seabrook and RHS Curator Elizabeth Balmforth, then reviewed the sixteen videos.
Lucas, who is from St Mary’s CEVA Primary School came top of the 7–11 age bracket. Judges noted that Lucas demonstrated his excellent gardening skills in the video. His dedication showed through, as he looks after the school garden in the holidays.
On top of the title of RHS Young School Gardener of the Year 2012, Lucas will get to spend the day at an RHS Garden working with an RHS gardener, he’ll receive family tickets to RHS Flower Show Tatton Park or RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2013 and gardening tools, his school will receive £500 worth of garden gift vouchers. The runners-up have also won tools and £500 vouchers for their schools.
Jacky Chave, RHS Strategic Schools Manager, says: 'The RHS is delighted for Lucas and the runners-up – congratulations to you all, but we’d also like to thank all the teachers for sending in nominations. There are so many fantastically able and keen young gardeners out there and I’m already looking forward to next year’s competition.'
Watch out for more news and information on the RHS Campaign for School Gardening website.