This summer Archbishop Holgate’s School has been delighted to receive a unique and priceless gift from the Dean and Chapter of York Minster. The school has been given a large piece of magnesium limestone which was originally part of the Chapter House, which was completed in 1287. It still bears its original 13th century claw chisel tool marks and was removed during recent restoration of the Chapter House.
The reason for this generous gift is that the stone will be take pride of place in the Archbishop Tutu Spiritual Garden which is being created at the school. Following the visit of Archbishop Tutu in November 2012 the school has been raising funds to create a reflective garden and multipurpose outdoor space, including an open air teaching area. It will be used during break and lunch time for students to gather and chat, as well as during lessons and after school as a space for reflection and contemplation. The first phase of the project began this summer and included the building of paths, installing drainage and creating the central small amphitheatre. The school has received financial support from the Archbishop’s Fund for Mission and is delighted that their project has been recognised as having value by the Diocese. The Foundation Governors of the school have contributed and donations have been received from various local churches, the school’s PTA, the former pupils associations and individual ex-pupils.
Current students have raised money through bun sales and other small events.
The schools Chaplain, Richard Nihill, said about the project: “We were honoured to have Archbishop Desmond Tutu as a guest of the school in 2012. The Archbishop visited the school to recognise its community work and to celebrate its extensive links with the Diocese of Cape Town since 2004. These links have included thousands of pounds of charity fundraising. We are now delighted to be creating a garden named in honour of a man who exemplifies the schools values of Justice, Compassion, Forgiveness and Trust. The Archbishop Tutu Spiritual Garden will be a lasting addition to the fabric of this historic institution. We see it as a marvellous addition to the school, aiding in the spiritual development of our young people and helping them to flourish as rounded individuals.”
Sadly the school community is still some way short of the full cost of being able to complete both the first and second phases of the project. They would welcome any individuals who wish to make a general donation or those who might specifically wish to sponsor a bench or tree in the garden for example. The school can be contacted at reception@archbishopholgates.org or on 01904 411341.