Growing Spaces, Growing Minds – Food and Fairtrade workshop

We recently enjoyed a fantastic morning running a Food and Fairtrade workshop with the Reception children at Wimborne First School. Their enthusiasm filled the room, and it was wonderful to see how engaged they were with every part of the session.

Afterwards, their teacher shared some glowing feedback, telling us that the children had remembered so much of what they learned and that both staff and pupils found the workshop enjoyable, interactive and perfectly pitched for their age group. Laura, Early Years, Behaviour and Music Lead, added that they would love to welcome us back in future years.

This workshop sits within a much wider and exciting project already underway at Wimborne First School. DEED was awarded a grant from Talbot Village Trust to work with the school and horticulture expert Rebecca Bourdon to transform the outdoor space. The aim is to help young people understand and connect with nature, support their wellbeing and feel empowered to take positive action for the environment.

With further support from volunteers at Knoll Gardens Foundation and Planet Wimborne, the project began last term with a site visit and the construction of a new polytunnel and outdoor shelter. These additions will underpin a year of hands-on learning and nature-friendly gardening activities. The project officially launched at the start of March 2025 with a whole-school assembly, followed by workshops, inspiring speakers, practical food growing and opportunities for pupils across the school to deepen their connection to the natural world.