The 2025 RHS Malvern Spring Festival Rain Garden, designed to combat the flood issues experienced by the school, now doubles as a calming, shaded sanctuary for pupils and teachers alike.
Nestled near the Walthamstow Wetlands, the garden showcases how smart design can protect communities while enriching lives. It offers a hands-on learning space where children can explore nature, understand flood resilience, and enjoy a peaceful environment that supports wellbeing and play.
“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,” said Figen Bektasoglu, Head Teacher, Coppermill Primary School.
Created by designer John Howlett and rebuilt by Acacia Gardens with the help of volunteers, the Japanese-inspired garden features monochromatic planting, a sculptural pergola, and shaded seating. At its centre, a large swale with permeable Corten steel walkways demonstrates sustainable water management, linking the school to the surrounding wetlands and encouraging biodiversity.
Designed by John Howlett and rebuily by Acacia Gardens with the assistance of volunteers, this Japanese-inspired garden showcases a monochromatic planting scheme, a sculptural pergola, and shaded seating arrangements. At its focal point, a large swale, constructed with permeable Corten steel walkways, demonstrates sustainable water management, linking the school to the surrounding wetlands and fosters biodiversity.
“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,” added John Howlett.
Kelly Ostler-Coyle, Director of Corporate Affairs at Flood Re, the sponsors of the garden, said: “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.”
Flood Re is the joint initiative between the UK government and the insurance industry, which ensures that flood cover is more widely available and affordable. Flood Re will run for 25 years, at which point insurers should (theoretically) be offering policies based on actual risk to property.
