The Swanwick School and Sports College community worked together to create a fantastic David Attenborough–themed well dressing, celebrating the annual Derbyshire tradition. Pupils and staff collaborated on the project for over a week, using a range of traditional techniques, including clay puddling, outlining and petalling, to produce the final piece.

 To mark the historic occasion of Sir David Attenborough’s centenary year, the school collectively decided that the 2026 well dressing should celebrate his work and the significant influence he has had in inspiring young people’s appreciation of the natural world. The design featured a detailed portrait alongside a variety of patterns and wildlife imagery.

 Work on the dressing began on the Friday before the display, with pupils preparing and puddling the clay before applying it to the frame. Over the following week, the design gradually took shape, with students from all pathways contributing to petal preparation, outlining, and carefully adding natural materials to the clay.

 Pupils demonstrated outstanding attention to detail and took great pride in their work. It was wonderful to see pupils of all ages and pathways involved, showing patience, creativity and determination to produce such an impressive piece of artwork.