Gardeners and Seedlings
Gardeners and Seedlings is a valued project at GMSJ that brings our Vision, Mission and Christian value of LOVE to life in a meaningful, practical way.
The project pairs each Year 6 child (the Gardener) with a child in Early Years Foundation Stage (the Seedling). This supportive relationship begins even before our youngest children start school, when the Gardeners send a welcoming card to their Seedling, helping them feel part of our school family from the very start.
Rooted in God’s love, the aim of Gardeners and Seedlings is to ensure that our youngest children feel safe, valued and supported as they begin their school journey. Through positive role modelling, the Gardeners guide, encourage and nurture their Seedlings, helping them to grow in confidence and develop a strong sense of belonging throughout their first year at school.
Rooted and Grounded in LOVE
For our Year 6 pupils, becoming a Gardener is a role of responsibility that encourages them to live out our Christian value of LOVE:
Loving Others through kindness, patience and care
Loving Ourselves by developing self‑control, self‑respect and confidence
Loving Learning as they support and celebrate their Seedling’s achievements
Loving Life by building positive relationships and a strong school community
Loving God as they serve others in a spirit of compassion and faith
Growing Together
Throughout the year, Gardeners and Seedlings take part in shared activities that strengthen their friendship and support each other’s learning and development.
These have included:
Gardeners helping their Seedlings understand how family dining works
Reading together
Playing team games
Designing Christmas cards
Seedlings sharing their learning and achievements in the EYFS classroom