Horticultural honours were the order of the day as Jane West, Registry Manager at Newbury College, attended a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, in recognition of her long-standing service to education and the local community.
Held in the gardens of Buckingham Palace, the Garden Party welcomed guests from across the UK who had been nominated for their contributions to public life, education, volunteering, and community service, as part of the Royal Household’s annual programme of engagements to recognise individuals making a positive impact.
Guests were welcomed by the sound of a military brass band and treated to a traditional afternoon tea under elegant white marquees, where a selection of sandwiches, cakes and refreshments was served on the Palace’s fine china. Later in the afternoon the National Anthem played, marking the arrival of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla, who appeared on the terrace before making their way through the gardens to meet with guests. Attendees were also invited to explore the Palace grounds, which featured immaculately maintained flower beds, lakeside walks and vibrant displays of seasonal planting.
Jane, who described the experience as unforgettable, said:
“It was a real honour to attend the event and to be recognised in such a unique way. The atmosphere in the gardens was incredible – the attention to detail, the hospitality, and the setting were all exceptional. It was a privilege to represent the College among so many others who contribute to their communities.”
Jane was nominated for her work at Newbury College, where, in addition to leading the Registry, MIS and Exams teams, providing direct support to students and families, she is heavily involved in a range of initiatives that link education with community engagement, including overseeing the College’s contribution to Newbury in Bloom, which earned Silver Gilt and Gold awards in recent years.
As part of these activities, she has spearheaded initiatives that provide meaningful, real-world learning experiences to students on the Foundation Learning programmes, such as a stall in Newbury Market, where students plan, prepare and run a stall selling plants and produce grown in the College gardens. This encourages independence, builds confidence and helps students develop practical skills while engaging directly with the local community. This year’s stall raised nearly £300, which will support other college projects and activities.
Outside of work, Jane joined the committee of PALS (Partners for Active Leisure Scheme) West Berkshire in 2011, supporting the charity and becoming a trustee in 2014, making a huge difference to the lives of many local children with physical disabilities and their families. She has also been Show Secretary for Bucklebury Horticultural Society since 2010, where she works to encourage younger members of the community to become involved in gardening and nature.
Jane West's recognition at the Royal Garden Party highlights her exceptional contributions. Her colleagues and the students at Newbury College, as well as the countless people she has supported in the local community, deeply appreciate her dedication and the difference she makes every day.