Garden tribute to Gillian

Jun 21 2008 by Chris Robinson, The Journal

A NATURE garden in memory of a much-loved teacher has been opened at a North school. Gillian Henderson had taught at St Mark’s RC Primary School, Westerhope, Newcastle, for 23 years before her sudden death in April.

The mother of two, of Cullercoats, North Tyneside, was a science co-ordinator who encouraged youngsters to learn about nature and the importance of the environment.

Now her dream to see wasteland transformed into a place for children to learn for years to come has been unveiled.

Teacher David Hakin said that after Mrs Henderson’s death, children at the school, in Bardon Close, arranged their own prayer meetings to remember the popular teacher.

Hand-written tributes are also displayed in the colourful garden which was designed by the school council.

He said: “She was a fantastic colleague and was so dedicated. Teaching was her vocation and she has been an inspiration to so many people. Gillian had so much respect for the environment and everything around her. Because of her relationship with the children she just inspired them.

“This is going to be a living garden that’s going to be used by everybody.”

The garden, funded with £1,200 cash from Newcastle Council’s You Decide fund, features a cross made out of 300-year-old oak, as well as a memorial plaque.

Parents and friends also raised £1,300 which will be used to keep the garden growing and maintained.

Mrs Henderson’s husband Tony, environment editor of The Journal who attended yesterday’s official opening, said: “Just as Gillian was a devoted wife and mother, so she was also a devoted teacher who cared a great deal about all of the children she taught over 23 years at St Mark’s School.

“She also loved the outdoors and plants, so a memorial garden at the school brings all of these together in a way I know she would have liked.

“I would like to thank all of the friends, colleagues, neighbours and parents of the school and many others who have made this garden possible through their kindness and generosity.

“It is some comfort in this terrible time of loss to know that Gillian will be remembered through a memorial which will grow and mature and be a benefit to the youngsters, now and in the future.”