THE Heywood and District Secondary College (HDSC) was shocked and delighted to discover they had won the title of best edible garden in the Victoria.

Teacher and coordinator of the school’s Kitchen Garden Elly Colley said she invited to attend the Victorian Schools Garden Program’s recent awards ceremony at the Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens and found herself in for a busy night.

Ms Colley was surprised to accept the regional award, state award, and then the overall Kevin Heinze Perpetual Award for the Heywood school garden.

“I really wasn't expecting that, especially having seen what the other people have done as well,” Ms Colley said.

On top of three certificates and the official Kevin Heinze Perpetual plaque, they as well received prize money for each award.

For the regional award they received $350, for the state was $1500 and for the overall was another $1500.

Ms Colley said it will be up the students input next year with what is purchased with the prizemoney.

“We can use the money at any of the Victorian registered nurseries,” she said.

“We’re going to get some wicking beds and the kids will choose more trees and orchards.”

To enter the awards, students at the school helped prepare the entry, Ms Colley said.

They were asked to prepare and present a video of the school’s garden at the event.

“They did ask us to send a video. They said to just send a little video about what our school is about,” she said.

“One of our Hands On learning girls, she did a great little video. She went around the school and talked really well and showed the sheep.

“I think the video did it. So, she got a big pat on the back.”

Ms Colley said the school garden is gaining popularity with more students joining in the fun.

“Just the last couple of months the kids have really taken on a lot of things, and a lot of them have started planting trees.

“We’re definitely starting to get more produce into the kitchen, and the aquaponics are up and running.”

All students have had a part in caring for the school’s resident sheep, chickens, alpacas, flowers, orchards, vegetables, and more.