The Heart of England Rotary Clubs are running a competition for schools to design a Peace Garden and win a Peace Pole.

The planting of Peace Poles was started in Japan as a grassroots project in 1976. They are an internationally recognised symbol for peace and it is estimated that there are now over 200,000 Peace Poles across the globe. More information here.

Using the Peace Pole as a focal point , Rotary want schools to design an outside area for the school that will serve as a place of Reflection and Tranquillity. An area to engage all the senses and provide an interactive, learning environment,

Winning designs will be awarded a Peace Pole to their unique design. Rotary hopes this offer an opportunity to stimulate discussion on what Peace means to Young People and to share great ideas.

Designs are to be submitted by email, with their unique designs clearly outlined. A short paragraph to explain how the young person sees the value of the area can be included.

There are two age ranges 7-11 for primary schools and 12-16 years for secondary schools. One entry per school can be made in each age range.

Schools are encouraged to hold their own competitions with the winning entry being sent by email through to Margaret Morley at morleyam@aol.com 

If more than one school or group works together on the design, a plaque or sign in the Peace Garden with details can also be added to show Rotary and School working together.

Entries can be made following the end of half term until Friday 23 April 2021.

The winning designs will be announced in mid-May and arrangements for the award presentations will be made shortly afterwards in line with age guidelines.