On Saturday 8th October, 18 volunteer Master Gardeners and Master Composters from London, Warwickshire and Buckinghamshire gathered at Ryton Gardens for a day’s training in how to work with schools.

The day was led by Malcolm Smith and Ruth Hepworth from Garden Organic’s Education Team.

After a run-through of how schools plan their curriculum, health and safety issues, and technicalities, the group were soon planning a half term’s sessions for a school gardening club; and discovering how planting and harvesting times fit in (or not!) with the school year.

In groups, the volunteers prepared presentations, assemblies and group activities which they demonstrated to the wider group.

Feedback included:
“Very well judged day – clear and useful…..”
“This was well worth coming to, I have learnt so much.  “

…and participants returned home ready to face the challenge of working with schools:

“I now have confidence to work with the schools, targeting specific activities”
“I will review what I do with the children: ascertain more details of size of group, plan accordingly and offer more of a range of activities to schools.”

• Click here to Garden Organic’s free resources for schools with the Food for Life Partnership – including courses for school professionals

Master Gardeners and Master Composters gather at schools training

Top tips from volunteers for working in schools