From the moment you step onto the grounds of Oasis Academy Woodview in Edgbaston, it’s clear this isn’t an ordinary school. Among its unique features are a Viking ship and a striking replica of Stonehenge—both created by the pupils themselves.
The school community has worked tirelessly to convert a long-forgotten, derelict plot of land into a vibrant outdoor classroom. Since many children don’t have access to gardens at home, headteacher Joe Darnley was determined to give them their own green haven where they could get hands-on experience with nature and history.
“It would have been easy to bring in landscapers to do the work quickly, but I wanted the children to be part of every step,” explains Joe. “From mixing cement to planting seeds, the pupils have been involved in bringing the garden to life.”
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The children’s involvement has gone beyond simple gardening tasks. They’ve laid stones, created mosaics, planted flowers and vegetables, and gained a real sense of ownership over the project. This engagement supports not only their learning but also their mental health and well-being, providing a safe outdoor space to explore.
With the help of Adam Holder from the social enterprise Roots to Fruit—specializing in horticultural education—the school secured National Lottery funding to make the garden a reality.
What makes this garden truly exceptional is how it reflects key historical themes that tie directly into the children’s curriculum. The meticulously crafted Stonehenge replica serves as a hands-on lesson about ancient monuments, demonstrating thoughtful design features like the alignment of the Heel Stone with the sun.
Other areas bring history alive: pupils built a Roman road, learning about ancient engineering and even fun facts like how Romans used nettles for warmth. The Tudor Knot Garden is divided into four sections featuring intricate brickwork and diverse plantings. The Viking Ship archaeological area invites children to excavate a skeleton and uncover hidden treasures.
Every child from Year 1 through Year 6 has contributed—and continues to do so. Each Tuesday, Adam visits for sessions where pupils grow seedlings in a polytunnel and immerse themselves in gardening regardless of the season. The garden evolves constantly as children suggest new ideas and projects.
The learning garden is beloved by students, parents, and staff alike. It recently earned a Gold Award in the West Midlands Grow & Garden Awards, recognizing both its educational impact and the dedication of its young creators.
Its role extends beyond school hours, hosting special events like ‘Lads n Dads’ celebrations for Men’s Mental Health Month. These gatherings foster strong bonds between boys and male role models as they build bird feeders, use tools, and enjoy campfires together.
Looking ahead, the school plans to expand garden-based events throughout the summer. Always accessible to the community, the garden has become a cherished hub of learning and connection.
After more than a year of careful nurturing, the growing orchard and blossoming plants stand as a lasting legacy. Pupils will one day point to the trees they planted and say, “I helped create this.”
This extraordinary project has turned a forgotten patch of earth into a place of wonder, pride, and opportunity—truly something the entire community can celebrate.