To ask the Minister of Education how his Department is promoting school gardening programmes, including initiatives enabling schools to grow their own fruit and vegetables.

My Department does not normally endorse or promote any particular programme or initiative to schools. It is entirely a matter for individual schools to determine which programme or initiative to participate in to enhance curriculum delivery.

The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment supports schools by developing curricular resources. An example of this is the ‘Growing for the Future’ resource produced in partnership with Tourism Northern Ireland. This resource aims to encourage young people to grow fruit and vegetables and explore where food comes from while promoting healthy eating.

Schools here have the autonomy to engage with external providers to assist in the delivery of lessons if they feel it is a priority for their pupils.