Our Estates Manager wanted to work on a project that would promote the mental health and wellbeing of both students and staff by creating a garden for everyone to enjoy. She wanted to develop a rundown space and transform it into a tranquil environment that could be used as an area for reflection and social interaction for students and staff. To achieve this, she has put together a team of people from the college and community who have a passion for gardening, and has led them in creating her vision.
During previous staff wellbeing days, the garden team have worked hard using recycled materials to create an environmental compost, they have created borders with low maintenance plants along with a small vegetable patch. They have pruned fruit trees and used different textures in their planting to create a multi-sensory environment. The team have also upcycled current garden furniture and developed the out buildings so that they are inviting and utilised, especially at lunch time when people are invited to enjoy the space that has been created.
The plan is for students to help maintain and further develop the garden as an enrichment project with the support and guidance of experienced staff. There are two classrooms that can be used for planning future projects for the garden and teaching student about how to safely use the equipment. We also have a large greenhouse that they will be able to work in. This is a great opportunity for students to take a break from studying, de-stress and engage with their natural environment.
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