Katelyn Armstrong and Sally Lowe recently dedicated a day to volunteering at the Community School Garden, a long-standing project run by Sustainable South Brent. For the past 16 years, this initiative has been a cornerstone of the community, holding special significance for our colleague Katelyn, who has witnessed its positive impact firsthand. This effort is part of our broader commitment to community involvement, which includes leading various environmental projects such as recycling and food workshops, creating a wildlife area, and installing PV panels for the school.
A Fun and Educational Experience
Katelyn and Sally joined the weekly activities at the community school garden, where children have the opportunity to grow and enjoy their own fruit and vegetables. Upon arrival, they received a brief overview along with essential accident and safeguarding information. They then worked with four different groups of children aged 4-7 years. Katelyn and Sally were exemplary volunteers, demonstrating patience, kindness, and a willingness to get stuck right in. Their contributions were highly appreciated, with feedback praising their dedication and enthusiasm.
Working with children in Year 1 (ages 5-6) and Reception (ages 4-5), they began the day by planting sweetcorn, learning about the importance of planting it in a square for effective wind pollination. Sally nearly won the “muddy hands competition” during this activity! The children also harvested a variety of fruits and vegetables, including broad beans, strawberries, raspberries, blackcurrants, radishes, lettuce, and sugar snap peas.
Hands-On Learning
The children enthusiastically watered the plants, often showering both the plants and the volunteers! They filled a planter with compost, asking questions about the insects living in it and why compost is essential for plant growth. They pruned parsley for the school kitchen, knowing the children are more inclined to enjoy meals made with their garden’s produce.
A Volunteer-Driven Initiative
Entirely volunteer-run, the Community School Garden does not use any funds from the school budget. Volunteers have noticed a positive change in the children’s attitudes towards healthy eating over the years. Each school year has designated garden time, and some older children have become knowledgeable and confident gardeners. Beyond gardening, the space is used for various lessons, including science and art, providing a valuable outdoor learning environment.
Positive Feedback
Katelyn and Sally’s participation was highly appreciated. They demonstrated their experience in community work and interest in sustainability, bringing real enthusiasm to our group. Helen Hall, Project Coordinator at Sustainable South Brent, said: “Katelyn and Sally were both a joy to volunteer with—patient and kind with the children, and not afraid to get their hands dirty. They both demonstrated experience in community work and brought real enthusiasm to our group. We commend their organisation for setting up the opportunity for employees to volunteer, and we are especially grateful to Katelyn and Sally for their participation.”
How You Can Help
The work done at the South Brent Community School Garden is amazing, and donations are always welcome to help continue their fantastic efforts. If you’d like to contribute, please contact Sally or Katelyn, who will organise getting the money to the garden.
For more information about the Community School Garden, visit South Brent Community School Garden.
See here for more about Agena’s other volunteering days and community initiatives.
