Growing for Life
'Growing for Life' is our horticultural project in 11 acres of grounds. We believe in the therapeutic value of horticulture and our students benefit from fresh air, engaging with natural elements, an increase in stamina and a sense of collective activity. 'Growing for Life' offers our students a restorative balance that diminishes anxiety and behaviour that challenges, and contributes to improved social interaction and respect for the natural world.
Nurturing Growth, Naturally
‘Growing for Life’ is part of our Access Adult Learning Service. There is an organised process to joining the group involving assessment, support and guidance by our horticultural staff.
Nature Engagement
Harnessing the proven benefits of green exercise and natural immersion to diminish anxiety.
Collective Activity
Building confidence through shared goals, team-based learning, and community spirit.
Learning Through Every Task
This project is a catalyst for many types of learning – we cover literacy, numeracy, problem solving and health & safety as well as the horticultural subjects. Everyone can work and learn individually, but the group also functions as a team with the more established members acting as mentors for the new students. A process of ‘managed expectation’ is created so that tasks are tailored to each individual, allowing them to build on their sense of achievement and self-worth.
From Seed to Table
These activities develop our students’ skills and interests, utilise their energy and promote learning. Students develop a sense of achievement and responsibility in growing the produce for themselves and our community. Specialist staff support students who agree what roles they will take involving planting, tending and harvesting fruit and vegetables, and producing preserves.
"Fresh air, quiet focus, and the rhythm of the seasons."
Our Flourishing Landscape
Explore the diverse environments where empowerment takes root every day.
11 Acres of Opportunity
There are many advantages to being situated on the Birch site as the grounds offer the possibility of a variety of activities: woodlands that enable students to experience conservation first hand extensive allotments for vegetables and flowers two polytunnels for propagation and growing more formal gardens that help develop pride and an understanding of presentation
Polytunnels & Production
Year-round learning in our extensive polytunnels and allotments, where students see projects from seed to harvest, and go on to produce their own preserves.
Life in the Garden
A glimpse into the daily rhythms and rewarding moments of our horticultural project.
Ready to start your journey?
If you are interested in finding out more about our 'Growing For Life' activities, please contact our project manager.
Day Centre Manager