Green fingers are alive and well at Creagh National School in Ballinasloe, which has just been announced as the 2025 winner of the SuperValu Let’s GROW initiative.
This is a classroom-based food growing programme from GIY, in partnership with SuperValu.
Now in its third year, SuperValu Let’s GROW is rooted in one big idea: helping young people understand the importance of growing food sustainably.
Through the programme, primary school pupils across Ireland are discovering the magic of homegrown food, the positive impact on their health and community, and the power they have to protect the planet.
Creagh NS stood out for its creativity, bringing the challenges to life in a fun and engaging way. Embracing the SuperValu Let’s Grow programme – which champions the idea that there’s always space to grow – their classroom was transformed into a greenhouse of learning.
From growing to cooking and eating, each challenge was thoughtfully designed and tended to by the students themselves, making the experience truly come alive.
Mrs Gallaher, involved in the project explained, “We saw children light up with curiosity — not just about how food grows, but about ecosystems, biodiversity, and the environment.”
“The SuperValu Let’s GROW initiative helped spark big conversations about small changes, and our students embraced every part of it.”
Each school that participated in SuperValu Let’s GROW received a classroom-ready kit packed with seeds, compost, pots, and learning resources linked to the curriculum.
The goal? To inspire real-world, sustainable learning experiences — and nurture a generation that values resilience, resourcefulness, and respect for the Earth.
Mick Kelly, Founder of GIY, praised the school’s efforts, “Creagh NS brought the spirit of sustainability to life in their classrooms and beyond.”
“Their project is a brilliant example of how growing food can empower young people to engage with climate action and sustainable living in a fun, practical way.”
As this year’s national winners, Creagh National School will receive a €1,000 garden development grant to continue expanding their growing efforts and deepening their commitment to sustainable education.
Michelle Griffin, SuperValu Strategy Marketing Manager, said, “At SuperValu, we believe in the power of community and the importance of sustainability.”
“Through SuperValu Let’s GROW, we’re helping schools foster those values from the ground up — and Creagh NS has shown just how impactful that can be.”
Fergal Dunne, SuperValu Ballinasloe added, “Through the SuperValu Let’s GROW programme, we empower students to embrace sustainable living.”
“Creagh NS has shown how growing food can positively impact students, inspiring them to connect with nature and adopt sustainable practices.”
Since its launch, SuperValu Let’s GROW has reached more than 150,000 pupils across Ireland — equipping young minds with the tools, skills, and inspiration to grow food in a way that respects people and planet.
