Seasonal Gardening in the Schools Garden
The Community Gardeners, who comprise eight tenants from across 13 independent living schemes, contribute to seasonal tasks to help maintain the Schools Garden for the enjoyment of families, community groups and school visitors alike. The programme’s aim is to foster a supportive environment where individuals learn new gardening skills, build friendships and grow in confidence.
“I like seeing things grow, that makes me feel happy and getting fresh air is good for me.”
Set up in partnership with Cambridge City Council’s Independent Living Service, the service’s Activities Coordinator initially invited a group of tenants to join the programme following an introductory session in the Garden.
“It’s good for my mental health and meeting people my own age“
Led by Pete, the Garden’s horticulturalist, the group contribute to seasonal tasks including watering, weeding, harvesting vegetables, digging over and mulching the raised beds, trimming back the hedges, labelling the plants for visitors to be able to identify vegetables.
Gardening raises spirits and connection to people and plants
“I get a sense of pleasure from being here and it does you the world of good being outside.”
