THE COPPERMILL SCHOOL ‘RAIN GARDEN’
RHS GOLD WINNING GARDEN RELOCATION
‘This Japanese-inspired show garden won Gold at RHS Malvern 2024. Generously funded by Flood Re, the garden has been donated to Coppermill Primary School in Walthamstow, a stone’s throw from the Walthamstow Wetlands. Rebuilt by Acacia Gardens with help from volunteers, it features tranquil monochromatic planting, a striking pergola, and shaded seating, providing children with a calm and inspiring green space that supports learning, wellbeing, and connection with nature. At its heart, a large swale covered with permeable corten steel walkways demonstrates sustainable flood management while encouraging biodiversity, linking the school directly to the surrounding wetlands and offering a living classroom where children can explore and celebrate the natural world.
Sponsored by FloodRe
Built by Acacia Gardens
Photography by Marina Walker
Corten metal by Weatherit
Plants by Hortus Loci, How Green, Paramount, Lincs plants
Figen Bektasoglu, Head Teacher, Coppermill Primary School added:
“The Rain Garden has transformed a corner of our school into a peaceful, shaded haven where children can learn, play, and connect with nature. It’s not just beautiful – it’s a powerful tool for teaching our pupils about climate resilience and the importance of protecting our environment.”
Kelly Ostler-Coyle, Director of Corporate Affairs at Flood Re, commented:
“We’re proud to see the Rain Garden take root at Coppermill Primary School. It’s more than just a beautiful space – it’s a practical, educational tool that will help hundreds of children understand the importance of flood resilience. Moreover, it shows how simple solutions can help to prevent flooding by building back better.”
John Howlett, garden designer said:
“I’m thrilled to see my RHS Gold medal-winning garden find its forever home at Coppermill Primary School. Every child deserves access to a beautiful green space. I hope this garden sparks curiosity, supports mental health, and becomes a place of joy and calm for generations to come.”
