Key Facts

Growing Together for SEND learners - Gardening for Wellbeing

Growing Together for SEND learners - Gardening for Wellbeing

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Growing Together: Gardening for Wellbeing is a practical 5 week course designed for SEND learners who want to develop gardening skills, build confidence and explore the positive benefits of connecting with nature in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Learners will take part in a range of indoor and outdoor gardening activities while developing practical skills in plant care, creativity and environmental awareness. The course provides opportunities to improve wellbeing, confidence and independence through hands on learning and working with natural materials.

Activities are adapted to suit individual abilities and experience, allowing everyone to participate at their own pace.

This course is one of four Cooking Together and Growing Together themed courses running throughout the year.

  • Entry Requirements


    This course is designed for SEND learners who would like to develop gardening skills, confidence and wellbeing through practical activities.

    No previous gardening experience is required. Learners should be willing to participate in indoor and outdoor activities and be able to follow simple instructions with support where appropriate. Activities can be adapted to suit a range of abilities.

    *This course is designed for adult learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Learners must be aged 19 or over on the start date of the course and must not have an active Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

  • Course Content


    Learners will explore the basics of gardening while discovering how plants, nature and outdoor activities can support a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.

    Topics include:

    Week 1: Gardening basics: soil, water and light

    Week 2: Leaf and flower pressing

    Week 3: Planting and recognising different herbs

    Week 4: Exploring garden wildlife

    Week 5: Natural collage using materials from the garden

    Learners will also develop skills in:

    *Understanding how plants grow and what they need to thrive

    *Caring for plants and herbs

    *Exploring nature and garden wildlife

    *Developing creativity using natural materials

    *Building confidence through practical outdoor activities

    *Supporting wellbeing through gardening and time spent in nature

    *Making sustainable and environmentally friendly choices

  • Progression Next Steps


    This course is part of the Cooking Together and Growing Together programme for SEND learners. After completing this course, learners may wish to continue developing their practical skills by progressing to:

    WHRX052CL Cooking Together: Hosting and Life Skills (T1D)

    WHRX055CL Cooking Together: Meals on a Budget (T2D)

    WHRX053CL Growing Together: From Garden to Plate (T2D)

    These courses provide further opportunities to develop cooking, gardening, independent living and healthy lifestyle skills.

  • Additional Information


    A £20 materials fee is payable to cover plants, seeds, gardening materials and resources used during the course.

    Learners may be able to take home some of the plants or creations they make during the programme.

    This course is one of four Cooking Together and Growing Together courses offered throughout the year, each focusing on different aspects of cooking, gardening, wellbeing and independent living.

    For more information, please visit the website or contact beata.allen@stcg.ac.uk.

  • Course Structure


    This is a 5 week practical course with one session each week. Sessions include demonstrations, gardening activities, creative tasks and opportunities to explore the natural environment.

    Activities are designed to be accessible and can be adapted to meet individual learning needs, abilities and previous experience.

  • Assessment Details


    There are no formal exams or written assessments.

    Progress is assessed through participation in practical activities, observation by the tutor and the development of gardening skills, confidence and personal wellbeing throughout the course.

    Learners will receive encouragement and feedback to support their progress.

  • Teaching and Learning


    Learning takes place in a friendly, supportive and inclusive environment led by experienced tutors.

    Sessions include demonstrations, practical gardening activities, creative tasks, discussion, visual resources and individual support where appropriate. Learners are encouraged to work at their own pace, try new activities and build confidence through practical experiences.

    The course supports learners to develop new skills, enjoy time outdoors and explore how gardening can contribute to wellbeing and a healthy lifestyle.