Work with local schools is key to our philosophy of engaging with and educating children and young people about the joy of nature and horticulture, and raising awareness of how our food is produced.  We currently work with 13 schools and 3 pre-schools, hosting visits to around 900 local children each year. We offer themed sessions in the gardens – each giving our young visitors a chance to get their hands dirty. All children are welcome!  

Our garden in Ross offers raised beds for school classes to grow, tend and harvest fruit and vegetables, an orchard, several polytunnels (including one to keep us dry on very wet days), a great big compost area, a sensory herbal garden, living willow structures as a great hideaway, lots of space for wildlife such as a little pond and several insect hotels, a wild meadow, some mature native trees, and… plenty of space to explore and be.

Our gardening activities are educational as well as supporting mental health and well-being. The garden offers activities to help…

• The development of fine motor skills through garden-based activities like planting, handling tools, digging
• Sensory development – using the senses of sight, touch, smell and hearing
• Social development – working together, talking about the garden, learning teamwork and sharing
• Environmental awareness – learning about zero waste, zero food miles, organic gardening and wildlife protection
• Development of self-confidence and improved emotional well-being
• Encouraging healthy eating – showing children where food comes from and developing a sense of pride in ‘growing their own’
• And, for visiting families, spending quality time together. 

During the holidays we offer seasonal Gardening Clubs and special events which will be announced on our Facebook page. Also, we are proud to welcome volunteers for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. We welcome enquiries from youth groups, schools, parents and young people. We are committed to welcoming as many young people as possible and keep working on new ideas and events to make that happen.