Pupils from Chestnut Street CE Primary School, part of LAAT, are celebrating after winning a prize in the Schools’ Challenge at this year’s Lincolnshire Show.
The school’s Gardening Club impressed judges in the SEN ‘Growing Resilience’ category, taking home second prize for their thoughtful and creative entry. Their sensory garden, designed and built entirely by students, stood out among entries from nine other schools – and even caught the attention of HRH The Princess Royal, who stopped to chat with the children about their project during her visit to the show.
The prize marks a proud moment for the school, recognising the children’s hard work, teamwork, and imagination. The club, made up of twelve Key Stage 2 pupils, was launched earlier this academic year to enrich the experience of children with special educational needs (SEN). What started as a student-led idea to make the school a better place became a school-wide initiative that brought together pupils, staff, families, and the wider community.
Headteacher, Dan Doud, said: “We are so proud of our pupils – not only for their well-deserved win but for the care and creativity they poured into this project. The sensory garden has had a lasting impact on the whole school, and this award is a wonderful recognition of that.”
The garden, created using recycled and repurposed materials, includes hedgehog homes, butterfly drinking stations, colourful artwork, wind chimes, herbs, and textures to stimulate the senses. It has already inspired the school’s Reception class to begin creating their own version.
The Lincolnshire Show Schools’ Challenge celebrates the imagination and resilience of young people across the county. For Chestnut Street, the recognition is more than a trophy – it’s a celebration of student voice, teamwork, and a growing culture of inclusion and wellbeing.
