British Garden Centres recently assisted chef and author Jamie Oliver as he opened a newly renovated garden at Great Bradfords Junior School in Braintree, Essex, to mark the publication of his second children’s book, BILLY AND THE EPIC ESCAPE. The garden renovation, sponsored by Puffin Books, was significantly enhanced by the generous donation of plants from Braintree Garden Centre, part of the BGC family.

The garden features planting spaces for flowers, herbs, fruits, and vegetables, alongside brand-new reading nooks and bookshelves, providing children with serene outdoor spaces to enjoy stories. The renovation was carried out by local landscaper LEX Building Services, with the vibrant array of plants donated by Braintree Garden Centre, which the pupils will enjoy as they learn about gardening and nature.

During the visit, Jamie talked to pupils from the school including members of the gardening club, and student librarians, as well as pupils who struggle with reading – something Jamie himself experienced as a child due to his diagnosis with dyslexia. He shared his experiences with the children and listened to theirs, discussing the idea of it being okay to do things your way, particularly that there are many ways to enjoy and create stories.

Speaking about his book, Jamie Oliver said: “The brilliant thing about stories – whether you read them or listen to them – is that they can transport you to magical worlds and take you on incredible adventures. But stories can also help you understand yourself and show you that everyone has different ways of doing things. And that’s why I’m super excited to be publishing my second book, which I hope will open new worlds to the children that read – or listen! – to Billy’s new adventure.”   

Francesca Dow, MD at Puffin Books, commented: “When Jamie first spoke about his idea for Billy and the Giant Adventure, he inspired me with his story and his passion that as a parent or carer, above most things you want for your child to love good healthy food and love reading. The two are beautifully intertwined in Jamie's Billy stories. Puffin has always been about sparking children's imaginations, and we're proud to publish many different authors and books to inspire varied tastes. So, it feels very fitting to celebrate BILLY AND THE EPIC ESCAPE, Jamie’s second children’s book with us, by sponsoring a garden with gorgeous reading spaces uniting these two important factors in childhood development.”

Mr Wrench, Headteacher of Great Bradfords Junior School said: “We are delighted with our new gardening area. The area has been transformed and is an excellent space for children to enjoy planting and growing along with reading outdoors for pleasure. We can’t thank Jamie, his publishers Puffin, British Garden Centres and LEX Building Services enough for this opportunity and the children will love using this space!”

Lisa Capper of Braintree Garden Centre said: "Jamie Oliver's dedication to nurturing children's imagination and connection with nature is truly commendable, and the team at Braintree Garden Centre are thrilled to have contributed to the renovation of the garden at Great Bradfords Junior School. We hope the pupils enjoy the garden and explore the vibrant array of plants that will provide enjoyment for years to come.”