Mary Bishop, Education Manager, GIY
A fresh approach to food education, rooted in nature, curiosity, and connection.
We believe every child should know where their food comes from—and feel empowered to grow it themselves.
That’s the mission at the heart of GROW at School, GIY’s hands-on food growing and sustainability programme that’s already transforming schoolyards, classrooms, and communities across Ireland. Don’t just take our word for it, students from Tramore ETNS have shared some perspectives of their GROW at School experience with us.
Taking it to the Next Level — Together
In a powerful new partnership with Educate Together, we’re making GROW at School a core part of the learning experience in more schools than ever before.
Together, we’re embedding food growing into the daily rhythm of school life. And it’s doing more than growing veg — it’s nurturing healthier choices, resilience, teamwork, and joy.
A Big, Bold Vision
Over the next three years, we aim to roll out GROW at School to 75–80% of Educate Together schools, reaching over 12,000 students (and their families). That means:
- A robust programme designed to last
- Comprehensive teacher training and support
- Exciting new curriculum-aligned resources
- Deep integration into school culture
This is about lasting change—not just a one-off activity, but a movement.
A Lighthouse for What’s Possible
GROW at School isn’t just about what happens in the garden. It’s a tool for system change—shaping student wellbeing, community connection, and climate action.
Through feedback, surveys, videos, and stories, we’re building a powerful case for why food growing should be part of every child’s education.
Together, We Can Make This National
We’ve seen the impact. Now, we want every school in Ireland to experience it. That’s why we’re working to influence policy, planning, curriculum, and funding — to make growing food a fundamental part of every child’s education.
Because when young people grow food, they grow more than just carrots. They grow in confidence. They grow understanding. They grow hope.
Want to Get Involved?
Let’s grow this movement together.
Register your school’s interest to join the programme in the new academic year: https://giy.ie/pages/grow-at-school
Join our Educate Together Teacher Panel to help shape the programme to reflect your ethos: Email us at growatschool@giy.ie