Dereham CoE Junior Academy's new garden opened by Bishop

The space in Dereham Church of England Junior Academy, part of Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT), has been in the making for the past 18 months.

The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher said: “It was a joy to be involved with opening the new Good Shepherd’s garden.

Bishop Graham read about the plants in the garden with Heath (Image: Submitted)

"It is a great space, lovingly created by adults and pupils, as well as the generosity of local funders.

"I hope it will be a place where pupils can sit in green pastures by quiet waters, or walk the different paths, and know that goodness and love are Jesus’ gift to them.”

Headteacher Kelly Scott said: "Some of our dedicated staff wanted to take an unused and uncared for part of the school and make it into a lovely reflection area for children to learn and sit during the school day.

"We soon realised it was going to take a lot to realise this vision, including lots of funding.

READ MORE: Giant 'Big Bum' highlighting cancer awareness to feature in family fun days

"We were fortunate to be able to access funding from St Nicholas Church to help make this vision a reality."

Oliver Burwood, CEO of DNEAT, said: “This is a fantastic example of a church school working in collaboration with its local church to produce a fantastic outcome for children.

"The garden is stunning, and I know it will benefit everyone that has the opportunity to use it."The gardening team was made up of school staff including teachers, caretakers and cleaners (Image: Submitted)

Reverend Canon Paul Cubitt of St Nicholas Church, Dereham, said: “The churchwardens and Rector are delighted to see the completion of the Good Shepherd garden."

Katy McKay, teacher and RE lead said: “After being inspired by the Psalm 23 Garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, I am so pleased that our vision has come to life, offering staff and children a tranquil place for reflection."