Huntingdon Academy in St Anns, Nottingham opens memorial garden in memory of site manager Ian Coates, of Newark

A memorial garden has opened in honour of a much-loved member of staff who died following the Nottingham attacks on June 13, 2023.

Huntington Academy in St Anns, Nottingham, opened the garden in memory of Ian Coates, of Newark, who was the site manager at the academy.

Following the attacks, the school came together to reflect on how to best remember and celebrate Mr Coates’ life.

Guided by input from his family, colleagues, pupils and wider school community, the idea for the garden space was born through the dedication of teachers Emma Appleby and Lucy Cousins, who worked closely with Toni Lee, Project Officer at Nottingham City Council, to coordinate efforts with businesses eager to contribute to the cause.

Mr Coates’ dedication and joyful spirit were said to have left a ‘lasting imprint on the school and wider community’.

He was known as “Mr. Christmas” for his festive displays, was a passionate advocate for enriching the lives of children, especially those in the heart of the city.

Nestled within the school grounds, the memorial garden offers a peaceful and welcoming space for pupils, staff, and families to reflect, talk, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature.

It serves as a quiet retreat where children can read or draw during lunchtime, provides a calm setting for daytime interventions, and offers a comforting place for families to sit at the end of the day.

The garden was designed by Neil Northop of Weddles, with creative input from Miro Golias of Miro Photography.

It features flowers, herbs, and fruit, planted by teaching assistant Vikki and Year 6 pupils.

Rebecca Riley, headteacher of the School at Huntingdon Academy, said: “The memorial garden has been a true community act of kindness. Local businesses have given their time and resources to help us create this special space.

“We are so very proud of the garden and grateful to everyone who made it possible, including Olympian Homes, RG Group, Jacob Heaton, RS Civils, Bowkirk Joinery, Smith Painters and Go Gree.

“We really could not have done it without them.

“Mr Coates continues to be in our hearts and minds, and the love still shines strong as we continue his legacy.”

A new gardening club, led by teaching assistant Ernestine Gerald, will help care for the garden and continue Mr. Coates’ legacy of nurturing young minds and hearts.

Miss Gerald has been working with pupils and staff at the school, attending to the flowers to ensure they look their best for the opening.

Mr Fletcher, the school’s site manager, has been working with his woodwork club to install the hanging baskets.

To help fund the project, the school hosted a summer fair, filled with activities that reflected Mr. Coates’ passions — fishing, football, and fun, and Nottingham Forest even lent their support.

The event raised significant funds thanks to businesses from around the area and the wider community.

A significant contribution came from the Coates family, who donated a commemorative bench, gifted by Hilary Dubery.