Each two hour session takes groups of children through either the basic principles of gardening or an insight into the world of wildlife. Through demonstrations, practical activities and creative games, experienced and enthusiastic workshop facilitators encourage interest in our natural environment and the scientific world.

When working with schools, each session will link to the relevant curriculum (Early Years, Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2), aiming to reinforce and complement the work of the classroom teacher. At the end of the unit we provide teachers with feedback to support individual assessments.

Sessions can be morning 9.30 to 11.30 or afternoon 1.00 to 3.00 for up to 15 children at a time. Facilitators are CRB checked and we provide risk assessments.

Science KS1 & KS2 Curriculum

Unit 1B (Yr 1) Growing Plants
Unit 2B (Yr 2) Plants & Animals in the Local Environment
Unit 3B (Yr 3) Helping Plants Grow Well
Unit 3D (Yr 3) Rocks & Soils
Unit 4B (Yr 4) Habitats
Unit 5B (Yr 5) Life Cycles

Teachers are encouraged to participate in the session for maximum benefit and to gain a clear understanding of what the children are learning. We also ask teachers to support the workshop leaders with behaviour management.

Click here for further information, including advice on what to wear.

Outreach Pilot at King Henry's Walk Garden

May 2010: As part of The Garden Classroom’s Outreach Pilot, funded by the East Area Committee Budget (Islington Council) and the Ernest Cook Trust, we have already delivered 47 workshops using the science curriculum at King Henry’s Walk Garden. The outcome has been very positive and feedback has helped us refine a proposal for a larger project in Islington.

New North Community School, Islington, brought 25 children from Year 4 on March 5 and 12, 2010:

'TGC facilitator was great, she explained and answered questions really well. The children gathered lots of information about different types of plants growing locally.'
'The children enjoyed the talk, investigating different plants grown and making the apple bird feeder.'
'I feel it was a great outdoor experience for the children, who I believe have learnt a lot from their experience at King Henry’s Walk Garden.'

Highbury Quadrant Primary School, Islington, brought 24 children on March 9, 2010:

'Very enjoyable experience, a good mix of activities given that we came in winter.'

Lubavitch Primary School, Hackney, brought 18 children on March 3, 2010:

'It was inspiring for the children.'

St Paul’s Steiner School, Islington, brought 10 children on January 20, 2010:

'The session was thought informative and thought provoking. The children asked many questions. This is a great resource for the community and an inspiring project!'

Canonbury Primary School, Islington, brought 12 children on November 17, 2009:

'Very engaging and age appropriate. Gave children real life experiences that supported the curriculum.'
'One child said "I thought I was going to be bored, but I’ve done so much". All children thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the visit.'
'A fantastic experience that accommodated all learning abilities and those new to English.'

The ethnic origins of the children during these visits include British, Chinese, Indian, Bangladeshi, African, Caribbean, Pakistani and European.

Feedback from previous sessions

'Last week's session was excellent ... The pupils really enjoyed the whole session, especially being outside and having the opportunity to get a little dirty! Alison was wonderful, very knowledgeable and kind with the pupils. The session was full of appropriate activities and most of all the pupils had fun!' Teacher, St Mary’s Primary School, Islington.

'I have noticed a change in the children’s attitude towards the natural world – excellent!' Teacher, Our Lady & St Joseph’s Primary School, Hackney.

'It’s really fun, exciting, you learn a lot about nature. Good activities, helps us with our natural skills and our abilities.' Robert, age 8.