Sanctuary garden at Hungerford Primary School
Islington Council funded the new Sanctuary Garden in Hungerford Primary School using money we require from developers building in the borough – so zero cost to residents.
The garden is a warm, welcoming place for local and newly settled parents and children to connect, learn and begin new chapters. Whether you’re newly arrived or reflecting on your journey, this is a space for belonging, healing and growth.
Through hands-on gardening, families can build skills, nurture creativity, and enjoy time together in nature, all while learning about healthy living and sustainability.
In Islington, we’re so proud to be a Borough of Sanctuary, where everyone is welcomed, supported and celebrated. We spoke to some residents, councillors, and staff members about what the new space will mean for them.
What difference will this garden make to the kids at the school and their parents?
“The garden has had a really good impact on my son’s behaviour and on the whole community! I left Afghanistan 22 years ago, and when I was young, we had a big garden where we’d grow tomatoes and herbs. I live in a flat now and I’ve missed that connection to nature, but being here makes me feel like I’m reliving those memories.” – Muhammed, parent
Planting and digging at the sanctuary garden!
Why did the council choose to fund this improvement?
“Hungerford school is a big part of our community and the work that the whole academy does is so important to making sure there’s inclusion across diverse groups – it’s especially great to open the garden today during Refugee Week.
It’s an amazing space; the garden has beautifully transformed. It’s so important that children can play and learn outside, and it’s something we want for all schools across the borough.
We love what they’re doing in this school and thankful to all the teachers and admin that are making it happen.” – Cllr Jason Jackson, Holloway Ward
Why are gardening and sustainability important skills for children to learn?
“It’s so important that children are learning tangible practical skills in the future whether they want to become gardeners or have some kind of career outdoors, even understanding where their food comes is so important. Knowing about the cycles and systems of nature is vital to develop that connection with the earth, understand how our world functions and instil care and respect in them for the environment.” – Poppy, staff member at Hungerford Primary School
