The Arrival of the Sakura Cherry Tree

Published by Kingswood Senior School on Thursday 10th of March 2022

This week, the Headmaster, Mr Duke (Lower School Boarding Housemaster), Mrs Duke and a group of students representing different countries celebrated the arrival of the Japanese Cherry Tree at Kingswood School.

The tree was a gift from the people of Japan as part of the Sakura Cherry Tree Project. Mr Duke explained the cultural significance and symbolism of the Cherry tree to the Headmaster and all who gathered. Everyone who was present took it in turns to add soil and plant the tree.
 
The project aims to re-affirm the ongoing friendship between Japan and the UK. Over 6,000 of these cherry trees have been planted across the UK to symbolise the long-standing and strong cultural links that underpin the Japan-UK cordiality.

This project was devised in 2017 by then Prime Ministers, Shinzo Abe and Theresa May. Since 1912, Japan has given Cherry Trees as gifts to different countries across the world as a sign of friendship, hope, new beginnings, peace and revival. The cherry tree will be a beautiful reminder of the positive connections between Japan and the UK.

We look forward to seeing the tree grow and flourish, and hope it will be enjoyed by those who pass along Fonthill Road and those at Kingswood School.
 
Our boarding community is truly global and it was great to have our pupils of Japanese heritage accompanied by a friend to represent the links between many nations. Kingswood would like to thank the Sakura Cherry Tree Project and the Japanese people for their generosity.