Question to the Department for Education:

Her Majesty's Government whether they intend to promote the benefits of horticulture and gardening-based social activities (1) nationally, and (2) in schools and colleges, including as part of any reforms to the national curriculum; and if so, how.

Almost all primary schools in England offer gardening based activities in one form or another. In primary, the National Curriculum for science sets out that pupils must be taught to identify and name a variety of common wild and garden plants, including trees. It also recommends that schools should use the local environment throughout the year to explore and answer questions about plants growing in their habitat.

We have no plans to make changes to the National Curriculum, or to promote any specific subject. The Royal Horticultural Society, however, does great work to promote gardening in schools. Their campaign provides free resources to inspire and support schools to provide children with gardening opportunities.