Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden 

Bianca Tondo 

Garden Specialist

Hello Kingswood Community,

Haven’t these autumn days been glorious?We've been starting all of our garden lessons by appreciating the nature around us – the stillness, the low sun providing warmth, the water droplets on the plants and our good fortune with the weather. These moments of reflection tie in beautifully with our Habit of Mind of 'Responding With Wonderment And Awe'.

All Year 3 classes have now completed their tool safety lessons. Each session begins with a garden walk, whose length depends on the curiosity of the students – a perfect embodiment of our value of 'being inspired and engaged'. We started at the mandarin and kaffir lime trees, discussing how to tell when mandarins are ripe and tasting them fresh off the tree. Students were intrigued to learn that we use kaffir lime leaves in soups and stews rather than eating the fruit. Their reactions to the strong citrus/lemongrass aroma were split, showcasing diverse preferences and a spirit of inquiry.

Our garden walks continue with a visit to the chickens, where curiosity abounds. Students ask countless questions about the hens, from their number and the absence of roosters to their behaviours and care. 

We then explore the garden beds, discussing natural pest deterrents like eggshells, hunting for camouflaged caterpillars, and observing the growth of cauliflower, broccoli and garlic. Smelling a vegetable that looked like coriander or parsley, but turned out to be celery was a delightful surprise, engaging students' senses and critical thinking. This collaborative exploration aligns with our value of 'thriving in a team culture', as students share their observations and learn from each other.

Senior school students have been busy with various garden tasks – weeding, planting, turning over beds, and caring for our hens. A highlight was when Year 6C took on the challenge of moving a garden bed made from an old tractor tyre. They demonstrated persistence, teamwork and problem-solving as they pried the bed from the grass and figured out how to move it. Their elation upon success was a testament to their hard work and determination, shining brightly as a team.

Happy Gardening!