Historic Gardens Open to the Public as The River School Takes Part in The National Garden Scheme Open Day
This Saturday the 20th of June, the hidden beauty of one of Worcestershire’s most distinctive school grounds will be opened for all to enjoy, as The River School welcomes visitors for its annual National Garden Scheme (NGS) Open Day.
Set within more than eight acres of flourishing landscape, The River School’s gardens offer something far beyond a traditional school setting. They are a living story - of history, restoration, faith and community - where generations of care and creativity have shaped a place that continues to inspire young people today.
A landscape rich in history
The site, known historically as Oakfield House, has been a place of learning for over a century, with roots stretching back even further. Built around 1825, the estate has served many purposes, from a ladies’ academy in the 19th century to a horticultural teacher training centre in the mid-20th century.
Its gardens reflect this evolving legacy. The walled garden and heritage beds echo earlier eras, while more recent restoration work has brought fresh life to these historic features. Work that began in 2015 saw a devoted garden maintenance team carefully revive neglected areas, transforming them into thriving spaces once more.
Visitors wandering through the grounds will discover layers of this history interwoven with new projects - from repurposed greenhouses and orchard planting to the ongoing apiary development, which continues a longstanding connection with horticulture and biodiversity.
A garden shaped by community and faith
What makes The River School gardens truly unique is not only their heritage but the way they are lived in and cared for. These are not static displays but working spaces, shaped daily by pupils, staff and volunteers.
Children are actively involved in planting, composting and nurturing the land, learning first-hand how to care for soil, wildlife and one another’s environment. Vegetable beds overflow with produce grown by students; flower patches, raised from seed, bring colour and life across the seasons; compost heaps are turned and managed as part of everyday learning.
This hands-on approach reflects the school’s deeper ethos: that education should nurture the whole child - mind, body and spirit. Rooted in Christian values, The River School seeks to create a place where every individual is known, loved and encouraged to flourish.
The grounds themselves play a vital role in that vision. From the orchard, where apples grow among wildflowers, to the Forest School, pond and animal areas, the environment invites curiosity, reflection and joy. It is a setting where children can quite literally grow alongside what they plant.
Award-winning creativity: The Garden of Arthur
Adding to the excitement this year, visitors to the Open Day will also have the opportunity to see The Garden of Arthur, The River School’s recent award-winning show garden from the RHS Malvern Spring Festival.
Created entirely by pupils, the garden received the prestigious “Most Innovative Design” award, impressing judges with its creativity, craftsmanship and imaginative storytelling.
Inspired by the myths and magic of King Arthur, the project brought together children from across the school to design, build and cultivate every element. From the initial concept - drawn by a primary pupil - to its final realisation by our senior gardening club, the garden reflects the collaborative spirit of the school.
In keeping with The River School’s commitment to authentic, hands-on learning, every plant in the garden was grown by the pupils themselves from seed, bulbs or cuttings - demonstrating patience, dedication and respect for the natural world.
As part of the National Garden Scheme Open Day, this remarkable garden will be on display once again, offering visitors a chance to experience up close the imagination and skill that earned national recognition. It stands as a vivid example of how creativity, outdoor learning and teamwork flourish in this unique educational environment.
A special place of beauty and belonging
The school describes its setting as offering “space to breathe, space to explore and space to grow,” and it is easy to see why. Visitors often remark on the sense of peace that characterises the grounds, a quality that reflects both their natural beauty and the intentional care invested in them over time.
The estate has long been viewed not merely as land, but as a meaningful setting where community and belonging can develop. Its ongoing restoration has been described as a “labour of love,” carried out with a desire to honour both the site’s history and its future purpose.
National Garden Scheme Open Day
On Saturday 20th June, from 10:30am to 3:30pm, the gates will open for the public to explore these remarkable grounds as part of the National Garden Scheme.
Entry is £5 (children free), with all proceeds donated to NGS charities. Visitors can enjoy tea, coffee and homemade cakes while wandering through the gardens at their own pace (Refreshment proceeds to Worcester Christian Education Trust).
Highlights of the day include:
The historic walled garden and heritage planting areas
The orchard, rich with seasonal interest and biodiversity
Working vegetable plots and flower beds tended by pupils
The evolving greenhouse and apiary projects
Interactive glimpses into school life, including sustainable gardening practices and Forest School activities
Play areas and an outdoor gym
It’s an opportunity not only to enjoy a beautiful garden but to see how it is used as a living classroom.
Discover The River School
For families considering a different kind of education, the Open Day also offers a glimpse into life at The River School itself.
From Brook Nursery through to Senior School, pupils are supported to grow academically while also developing confidence, character and a sense of purpose, we want our students and their families to experience life In all its fullness. The Christian foundation of the school shapes a culture of compassion, joy and respect - values that are reflected in both the classroom and the gardens beyond.
In this setting, learning extends far beyond textbooks. Whether tending crops, exploring the natural world or simply enjoying the peace of the grounds, children experience an education deeply connected to life itself.
Plan your visit
The River School warmly invites the local community to come and experience this special place firsthand.
To attend the National Garden Scheme Open Day, simply arrive on the day - no booking required. For those interested in learning more about the school or arranging a visit, enquiries can be made via info@riverschool.co.uk, or book onto our Open Day on the 30th of June via the school website.
