Tonbridge transforms Skinners’ Temple Grove School’s gardens

Over the past five months, Tonbridge’s Gardens Team has designed a new front garden for Skinners Temple Grove School in Sherwood, Tunbridge Wells. Working in partnership with Peek Landscapes, the Gardens Team has created an inspirational space for children in Tunbridge Wells.

The aim was to transform the front of the school, which had begun to look tired and uninspiring, into a space that would welcome visitors and excite young imaginations. The result is a themed garden inspired by the classic novel Treasure Island, alongside an area celebrating much-loved children’s book characters. Throughout the garden, visitors will find the Gruffalo, Peter Rabbit and Paddington brought to life.

As children enter the Treasure Island Garden, they are greeted by a ship, treasure chest, cannons and cannonballs. One of the first features they encounter is a large carved book displaying the opening lines of Treasure Island. The text ends mid-sentence, encouraging children to seek out the book and continue the story for themselves. The familiar characters and storytelling elements woven throughout the garden are designed to spark curiosity and foster a love of reading.

The beautiful wood carvings were created by highly skilled wood artist Danny, also known as Jack Skylark, whose craftsmanship and imagination have brought the characters and themes to life. His work can be seen at www.axeworksarts.co.uk.