Abbey parent helps school allotment to flourish

The Abbey CE VA Primary School in St Albans is celebrating the incredible dedication of one of its parents in transforming the school’s allotment into a thriving and inspiring space for pupils.

Over the past year, Lizzie Sitton has generously given up countless hours of her own time – often visiting the school after work, at weekends and during the school holidays – to weed, water and care for the allotment.

Thanks to her commitment, the area is now bursting with vegetables, fruit and colourful flowers, creating a haven for bees and other pollinators.

Tomatoes, pumpkins, beetroot, onions, lettuce, pears and plums are all flourishing, while the school’s grapevines are once again producing a healthy crop. Later this year, Lizzie hopes to continue an Abbey tradition by making homemade grape jam from the harvest.

The allotment has become much more than a place to grow food. Children regularly visit with members of staff to learn about nature, wildlife and where food comes from, giving them valuable hands-on experiences beyond the classroom and helping them develop a greater appreciation of the environment.

The site also has a fascinating historical connection. Many centuries ago, this part of the school grounds would have been used by the monks of St Albans Abbey to grow food, herbs and medicinal plants. Today, the school is proud to continue that tradition, with some long-established plants still growing alongside the newer crops.

Headteacher Linda O’Melia said: “Lizzie’s commitment to our school has been nothing short of incredible. She has given up so much of her own time to create a beautiful allotment that not only provides fruit, vegetables and flowers but also gives our children a wonderful opportunity to learn about nature, sustainability and where food comes from.

“We are incredibly grateful for everything she has done. Her enthusiasm and generosity have created a very special place that will benefit our children for many years to come.”

The school hopes that Lizzie’s story will inspire others to see the difference that volunteering and community support can make. Her dedication has helped create a lasting legacy for future generations of Abbey children.