Below you will find a selection of our current activities for schools, nurseries and playgroups, children and young people. For further information or to book any of the sessions, please email kris.ehmer@haygrove.co.uk
Into the wild – nature connection for children
In these sessions we will enjoy all the different corners and niches of the Community Garden that invite children to connect with nature and its seasonal gifts! We can explore wildlife, watch the bees swarm from afar, find out what grows in the garden, notice changes in the season. We can play at being squirrels and mice ourselves (or other games) and gather treasures hidden in the ground or in the trees. We will do a seasonal craft project for the children to take home as their individual souvenir. Come along for some joyful times in the fresh air!
These sessions are available all year round and will be defined by what nature holds at that time – whether it be early spring cold, summer sun, or autumn colours.
Dig it! – gardening with children
In these sessions we will invite children to learn about gardening – from sowing seeds to preparing beds, potting and planting, tending and harvesting vegetables and herbs (and smelling or tasting them!). Depending on age we will learn about how and where our food comes from and what it means to grow organically. We will learn about the importance of pollinators and healthy soil. The session may also include a garden-related craft where children can go home with something that they have made (or planted) or we could even work on a little garden that you can take back into your classroom if you wish.
These sessions are dependent on weather, season and what the garden offers at that time and can be booked from late spring, summer term and autumn.
Mini beasts
Grab the magnifying glasses and become detectives in the garden. We will look out for the creepy crawlies, the little creatures beneath our feet (or underneath logs). This is a great opportunity to kindle the natural curiosity of children and learn about bugs, worms, caterpillars, spiders, butterflies and other insects in their living form. We will identify species and discover the important role that these creatures play in the ecology of our gardens and wildlife. And as we let the creatures crawl and wriggle their way, there will also be a chance for the children to get creative and make their very own little beast to take home.
The sessions can be booked all year long (but some of the beasts might be gone elsewhere at times).
From field to fork
We are taking the title literally – in this session we will have a good look at our garden to understand what fruit and vegetables are to be found. We will talk about (zero) food miles, seasonality, about organically grown and healthy food. Children will be able to harvest some fruit or vegetables on their own and bring it into our kitchen on-site where we will prepare a snack together. Depending on what is available in the garden we will be able to cook a soup, prepare a little salad or dips for our vegetables to dip in, or press some fresh apple juice.
Please note, that these sessions will only be offered from autumn 2025.
Duke of Edinburgh Volunteers
We are pleased to welcome Duke of Edinburgh Volunteers into the garden. We meet monthly on a Saturday morning to work on the grounds. The tasks vary from shifting compost, clearing garden beds, pulling brambles, harvesting willow, preparing activities for our visitors, help during special events – whatever is needed to support the Community Garden. We will also find time to get creative in a craft project, get to know each other and form friendships.
We are currently working with a closed group of volunteers. A new group will start in the Autumn term working through the academic year 2025/26.
Stick Man Activity Trail
The much-loved Stick Man has found his way into the Community Garden once more. Who can spot him and help him back to his family tree? Come and join us for a free, interactive discovery where the little ones can enjoy the fresh air and venture through the different areas of our spacious grounds in Ross to find traces of Stick Man’s story. Together we will hunt for his friends whilst learning about the garden, the weather, trees, different habitats, and of course… we will play with sticks!
The trail is suitable for children between 2 and 6 years old, and each visit lasts about two hours. We offer morning (9:30-12:00) and afternoon (12:30-2:30) slots to nursery groups and reception classes.