RHS School Gardening Awards frequently asked questions

Search through our frequently asked questions (FAQs) to find all the answers to your RHS School Gardening Awards queries

Is it free to take part?
Yes, it is free to take part in the RHS School Gardening Awards.
Who can take part in the RHS School Gardening Awards?
UK schools with a DfE, SEED or DENI number.
Is there an age limit on who can take part in the RHS School Gardening Awards?
The Awards are for schools gardening with children and young people aged 2-18 (or aged 2-25 for those gardening with young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities).
How many children and young people should be taking part?
We would love to see all children in every school taking part and gaining the benefits gardening brings. Please show how at least 10 children or young people have been involved when you submit evidence for the Awards.
How does taking part in the RHS School Gardening Awards support pupil wellbeing?

The RHS School Gardening Awards support pupil wellbeing in the following ways:

  • Improved physical wellbeing through increased activity and encouraging healthy eating
  • Improved emotional wellbeing through an increased connection with nature
  • Building life skills such as teamwork, resilience and confidence
Do we need to complete the RHS School Gardening Awards in order?
Yes, the Awards are designed to be completed from Level 1 onwards, progressing in order and finishing at Level 5.
My school completed Level 5 a few years ago, can we start from Level 1 again?
Yes, you can start again from Level 1 if five years have elapsed since Level 5 was achieved.
My school has achieved Levels 4 and 5, but not Levels 1, 2 and 3, can we now complete Levels 1-3?
No, please continue working your way through the awards. For example if the school has Levels 1 and 2 already, please work towards Level 3. (This applies even if your school completed any of the Levels 1-4 more than five years ago).
Is there a time limit to submit evidence?
No, you can take as long as you like to work your way through the levels, and submit the evidence at any point in the year.
Can we submit evidence for more than one level of the RHS School Gardening Awards at once?
Yes.
I just submitted evidence for a RHS School Gardening Award, when will we hear if we achieved it?
Evidence is assessed twice a month. If we need any further information to help us assess your submission, we will be in touch by email to let you know.
We’ve achieved a RHS School Gardening Award, when will we receive our reward?

We will contact you if we need any additional information, but if your submission is successful you can expect to receive your rewards within 15 working days.

My school is a Defence Children Services School. Can we join the RHS Campaign for School Gardening?
Yes, Defence Children Services Schools are welcome to take part.

Get involved

The RHS is the UK’s gardening charity, helping people and plants to grow - nurturing a healthier, happier world, one person and one plant at a time.