An increasing number of schoolchildren are discovering the joys of gardening, it has been reported.

According to the Irish Independent, "progressive" principals across the country are beginning to introduce gardening into the classroom.

Speaking to the newspaper, Brian Allen of St Joseph's School for the Visually Impaired said that although academic work is important, students should also be allowed to discover the "wonder and stimuli that nature brings".

"In our garden they get a chance to explore the texture of sand, soil, flowers and other plants, which is good for them. They sew seeds and feel them grow, then bring home bunches of flowers and herbs to their parents," he explained.

Robert O'Leary, principal of Sacred Heart Senior National School in Tallaght, said gardening can also help to create a sense of pride for students.

In other news, secondary school students voting in a recent Ipsos MORI said science and maths teachers lack passion and are not enthusiastic enough about their subjects.

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