New allotment and herb garden to aid Shoreham students’ learning

A Shoreham-by-Sea school’s new year-round allotment project received a boost from a chain of family-run Sussex garden centres.

The plan is to establish a fully-working allotment on the school grounds by creating an active, accessible outdoor learning space where the children can engage in hands-on growing in every season at Herons Dale Primary School.

With its Mayberry Garden Centre close by, Tates of Sussex stepped in and was delighted to help, and in time for essential work during the October half term break ahead of the garden’s official opening. The donation included a selection of herbs and soft fruit plants, including rosemary, mint, strawberry and rhubarb.

The Hawkins Crescent special school’s Laura Khot – HLTA & Allotment Project Coordinator explains that the allotment will serve two key roles for students: Plot to Plate Enterprise, and a sensory herb garden.

The produce grown will supply the pupil-run café and, each week, students will harvest their crops, explore different preparation methods and see the literal fruits of their hard work go from the soil to the menu.

The school is also creating a dedicated sensory area filled with strong-smelling and highly tactile, pleasant-feeling plants that can also be used in weekly cooking sessions. “This will provide an immersive, therapeutic and calming space specifically designed to engage our students' senses”, explains Laura.

“We’re delighted to support Herons Dale Primary School with this wonderful project, giving children the opportunity to learn new skills, connect with nature and experience the rewards of growing their own produce”, says Benjamin Tate, executive director of Tates of Sussex. “It’s especially rewarding to know that the allotment will provide an engaging outdoor space that can be enjoyed by pupils throughout the year.”

Anyone able to support the project is asked to call the school on 01273 596904.