A once-overgrown garden at Rothesay Joint Campus has blossomed into a vibrant outdoor learning hub, thanks to a generous donation from Saputo, an international cheese company.
The transformation has created a dynamic space where over three hundred children and young people now enjoy hands-on horticulture lessons, grow their own food, and connect with nature — all while learning valuable life skills.
And the pupils are loving it:
“I like the gardens to grow flowers. I like getting my hands dirty and learning new things. I like growing elephant garlic because we can make garlic butter with it.”
“It’s a fun place to play and learn about growing fruit and vegetables. Being outside makes me feel relaxed. I’d like to grow pomegranates next year.”
“The outdoor class is a useful area to learn or relax. I particularly enjoy the large beanbags. The raised beds and polytunnels will give us an opportunity to grow new plants that support us and biodiversity.”
The school community has worked tirelessly to bring the vision to life. The project included:
- Revamping the old garden with raised beds
- Redeveloping the secondary playground with formal planting
- Constructing large-scale polytunnels and a greenhouse
- Creating an outdoor larder and learning classroom
Children now grow everything from courgettes and pumpkins to grapes, cucamelons, potatoes — and even stevia, a natural sugar alternative. The Early Learning Centre has already won awards for its impressive produce.
Councillor Audrey Forrest, Policy Lead for Education at ɬ Council, added:
“This is a fantastic example of what can happen when schools and businesses work together. I want to thank the staff, pupils, and wider community for their hard work and vision. This outdoor space is a legacy that will benefit generations to come.”
Kirsty Campbell, Acting Head Teacher at Rothesay Joint Campus, said:
“This space has already transformed the way our young people connect with the world around them. It’s not just about growing fruit and vegetables — it’s about growing confidence, curiosity and community. We’re seeing children thrive in ways we hadn’t even imagined — whether that’s through teamwork, problem-solving, or the pride of taking something from seed to plate. A huge thank you to everyone who has supported us to make this possible — it really is becoming a living classroom and a shared space for learning, wellbeing and creativity.”
Saputo’s connection to Bute began in 2021 when it purchased Bute Island Foods, a manufacturer of dairy alternative cheese products. The company pledged £3 million to support local community initiatives and Rothesay Joint Campus was one of the successful applicants.
The school has recently secured additional funding and hopes to expand the outdoor space even further, with ideas including:
- A sensory garden
- Community growing days
- Opportunities for residents to visit and get involved.
