Schoolkids growing confidence through gardening

Sarah Beattie, Deputy Head Teacher at Mowbray Primary School in Southeast Northumberland, has seen first-hand the difference that visits to The Alnwick Garden can make for her pupils. The school is based in an area where many of the children have limited opportunities to experience activities outside of their usual surroundings, making the visits a valuable chance to try something new, spend time outdoors and learn in a completely different environment.

Around 14 or 15 children take part in each visit, with places offered to those who may benefit most from the experience. This can include children with low confidence, those who find it difficult to form friendships, children who have experienced trauma, or those with additional needs such as autism, ADHD or ADD.

The visits begin in spring, when the children get involved in practical gardening activities in the greenhouses, including planting seeds and caring for growing plants. Last year, the children were also able to repot cuttings and take them home to continue growing. One of the biggest highlights is harvesting potatoes that they have planted in bags, before cooking and eating them together on site – something that Sarah says is a source of “sheer amazement” for many of the children.

The experience also extends beyond gardening, with classroom sessions covering topics such as healthy eating and “healthy plates”. Activities are adapted to suit the children’s ages and abilities, ensuring everyone can get involved and take something from the experience.

For Sarah, it is the combination of learning, being outdoors and simply having the opportunity to enjoy The Alnwick Garden that makes the visits so special.

“The children love coming here. As well as the educational element, the free time in the garden after lunch allows them to enjoy the outdoors. Earlier in the year they were able to play in the water features, go on the swings and see the blossom. This is an opportunity these children would not otherwise have.”

Sarah believes the scheme is “absolutely wonderful” and has already applied for the programme to continue next year. Through ongoing initiatives and sponsorship opportunities, the Bright Garden Appeal hopes to continue supporting the scheme and helping more children benefit from these experiences in the years to come.