An Evening with Jo Thompson: 

Behind the Scenes of a Chelsea Gold Medal Garden

and guests Kali Hamerton-Støve of The Glasshouse

and Stephen Harmer, Head Gardener, Tonbridge School

Wednesday 4 March 2026

Drinks in the E M Forster Theatre from 7.15pm

Lecture in the E M Forster Theatre from 8pm

Join us for an exciting and inspiring evening of conversation with Jo Thompson, multi–Gold Medal-winning designer at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show; Kali Hamerton-Støve, co-founder of The Glasshouse; and Stephen Harmer, Tonbridge School’s Head Gardener.

Discover:

How a Chelsea Show Garden is created—from conception to completion.

The application process for charities and the challenges of funding and logistics.

Jo’s insights on design, planting choices, colour palettes, and materials.

Kali’s experience representing a small charity at Chelsea and the lasting impact of their garden at HMP Downview.

Led by Stephen, this fascinating discussion will conclude with a Q&A session.

About Jo Thompson: One of the UK’s leading garden designers, Jo is celebrated for her romantic style, biodiversity-focused landscapes, and international projects from Kent to New York.
About The Glasshouse: A social enterprise empowering women prisoners through horticultural training and employment. 
About Stephen Harmer: Former RHS lecturer and garden historian, passionate about the benefits of horticulture for all.

For detailed information about our speakers, please click this link: Speaker Details

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore what it takes to win a coveted Chelsea Gold Medal!

Cost: £20.00

This event is accessible, and open to all parents, past parents, OTs and the wider Tonbridge School Community