We said we would mention more of Trinity Catholic School’s memorial garden… well, here it is.

Inspired by their work as a UCL Quality Mark Beacon School and their engagement with ‘The Holocaust, their Family, Me and Us’ project, led to the construction and creation of the Bud and Blossom Memorial garden, officially opened almost a year ago, in the heart of the school site. But, then – why stop there? Debbie Hayden explains…

“This term, our school community has been actively engaged in preparations and fundraising for our entry into the Beautiful Borders Competition at Gardener’s World Live, held at the NEC this June.

This year holds deep historical significance, commemorating 80 years since the end of World War II and the liberation of Auschwitz. Our garden aims to cultivate connections between generations, our community, different faiths, and the natural world around us.

The design features a symmetrical pebble path, symbolising how we reflect one another, coming together at a central reflection pool that represents unity and shared humanity.

Every student and staff member will inscribe their first name on a pebble. Alongside these, we will honour victims of genocide by including their first names—an act of remembrance that reinforces connections between generations and faiths to cultivate a ‘better future.’    

Surrounding the reflection pool are mosaic hands, each crafted with colours representing different communities who have faced persecution—past and present. These symbolic hands, integrated into the garden’s structure, acknowledge collective trauma and the resilience found in coming together. Broken pieces are reassembled to form a complete whole—an emblem of healing and unity.

Each plant has been carefully selected for its symbolic meaning, to create a hopeful, tranquil space to promote healing.

As night falls, the garden will be softly illuminated by hand-decorated mason jar lanterns, shining as beacons of remembrance and hope for the future.

The triangular planting beds symbolise unity and the Holy Trinity, connecting the garden’s spiritual aspect with our school’s identity. At its heart stands a Silver Birch Memorial Tree, chosen for its symbolism as one of the first trees to regenerate after tragedy. Visitors will be invited to hang the names of their loved ones, adding a personal and emotional layer to the garden’s message.

This immersive, multi-sensory sanctuary is more than a garden, it’s a space for reflection, remembrance, and renewal. Through it, we hope to inspire others to learn from the past and work toward a brighter, more united future.”

This is a bold and brave, beautiful innovation and we look forward to seeing the garden open soon – and sharing snaps, memories and reflection in the next newsletter. We commend all involved and are so proud of your commitment and endeavour. If  you wish to support them this venture you can do so via its JustGiving page.