I began volunteering for the Learning Disability Project in April 2007. It was known as the Horticulture Project then and in conjunction with Castle College Nottingham delivered NOCN qualifications (horticulture, literacy and numeracy) for adult learners with learning disabilities. I knew from day one that I was going to enjoy helping with this project and the combination of supporting the learners, the welcoming, non-judgemental approach of Hollybush and being in the garden was wonderful. In January 2008 I became a member of staff taking a learning support assistant role.
The Project has changed and developed a lot from 2007 up until when I left in August 2019. The collaboration with Castle College Nottingham came to an end in 2010 and funding was fortunately secured by John Preston with Leeds City Council. This change meant staff had more choice in the activities offered so we still offered gardening and craft activities, plus the installation of a kitchen in the classroom allowed for more food growing and cooking opportunities. Hollybush began to offer woodwork sessions which our group members could take part in and also help in the onsite café with baking and washing up. We also began to focus some of our activities around two big Hollybush events – the summer plant sale and the Christmas Fair. The group worked hard preparing for both – sowing seeds, watering, pricking out and making many lovely craft items and cards for Christmas. The standard of plants and gift items produced by the group members is very high and they were always very proud of their work.
Some of the most fun activities we ran included regular walks to Kirkstall Abbey for picnics and to tend our raised beds, Christmas parties (with very competitive musical chairs!), BBQs in the garden, sports day and garden games… plus of course, the chance to spend time in a lovely garden with veg beds, polytunnel, ponds and seating areas.
I was part of a brilliant, close, supportive team over the years and made some great friends who I still meet up with. Although some group members obviously changed and moved on to new activities, many of the group stayed the same and I knew them for the whole 12 years I was at Hollybush. We were also lucky to have some excellent regular volunteers who made such a huge difference to the running of the project. I decided to leave Hollybush in August 2019 for a SEND support role elsewhere but I really learnt so much in my time at Hollybush, got to spend time outside every day and met lots of really great people
Written by Rosie Clarke