Schools are being asked to submit Peace Garden designsSchool pupils across Coventry and Warwickshire are being invited to get creative as part of a Rotary Club competition to promote peace and mental well-being among young people.
The Peace Pole competition forms part of a drive by Heart of England Rotary Clubs - where they're asking schools to submit their design for a Peace Garden.
The winning entry will be presented with their own bespoke Peace Pole, donated by the clubs.
With an estimated 250,000 across the globe, Peace Poles are internationally-recognised as the most prominent symbol, monument and silent visual for peace as well as representing a celebration of peace and collaboration between different countries too.
Rotarian and Peace Project Co-ordinator, Margaret Morley, said: “As an organisation Rotary is totally committed to working with schools in any way they feel necessary to support their Peace Education Curriculum and encourage a culture of peace, which is so important in today’s society.
“Promoting peace is a Rotary area of focus as well as part of the school curriculum. It’s not just about planting a peace pole it’s about working with schools to encourage young people to think about what peace means.”
"Peace Poles are so important as they take children out of the classroom, they provide areas of tranquillity and reflection, so important with mental health issues. They also encourage an interest in the environment planting/growing.
"The Peace Pole is a constant reminder that we are working together to create a caring and compassionate society.
“Children love them, ceremonies can be planned around them to encourage a culture of peace within the school.”
Schools interested in finding out more about the competition or the Peace Project are invited to contact Margaret Morley at:
morleyam@aol.com