The right hand side of the community garden is divided into learner plots. These give beginner gardeners the opportunity to manage their own plot of land whilst also contributing to the life of a productive community garden. We also have a large raised bed which will also be used as a learner plot for those who find it easier to garden without bending down.
We look for local residents and community groups who are interested in planning and managing each plot each year, so look out for recruitment opportunities in February of each year. Priority will be given to those without a garden, and groups (such as resident groups, schools or charities) who are planning to develop their own growing site or community garden.
In return for the use of the space, we request learners to attend regular volunteer sessions, and to engage with the life of the community garden, including attending open days and helping with the watering rota.
The following guidelines explain what we expect from the learners and what we offer in return.
Our offer to you
The community garden will provide:
- Use of a learner plot (measuring approximately 6m2) in a sheltered, sunny position within the community garden
- Free one-day workshop on Planning your Plot
- Advice about preparing a planting plan and feedback on your plan from our qualified gardeners
- Use of garden tools, compost and seeds
- Supportive and friendly environment with help from other volunteers when necessary – for example, on jobs which need extra man power such as digging or building frames
- Regular social events giving you the opportunity to meet other gardeners and exchange ideas and advice
- Support and advice in setting up your own growing space where you live or work
Your commitment to us
We ask trainees to commit to the following:
- Adequate care of your bed throughout the growing season including watering and keeping weeds at bay
- Regular visits to the garden – you should plan to visit the garden once per week during the busy period from April to September
- Creation of a planting plan to be shared with volunteers and other visitors
- Any surplus produce to be shared with volunteers or sold to raise money for the community garden
- Attendance at an evaluation meeting at the end of the growing season to discuss your planting plan and any notable successes and failures
- If you are applying as a group then we would like one person to be nominated as the main contact/group leader
What to do next
The deadline to apply for our 2023 intake has now passed.
If you would like to be part of next year’s project please check this page again in early 2024. We will explain how to apply and the deadline for expressions of interest.
