‘Live to Learn’ Students Transform Allotment into Thriving Community Space
Students at the ‘Live to Learn’ Southport Centre for People with Additional Needs have transformed a once-overgrown plot into a flourishing allotment. The project, which began in February, has become a source of great pride and a hands-on learning experience for everyone involved.
The project started with a significant challenge: clearing a neglected space. “We started in February, and it was just a complete mess, an absolute mess,” one leader shared. “So we cleared everything down. We got ‘Stumps Away’ in to get rid of all the logs, and we chopped all them. After clearing the site, the students began the hard work of preparing the ground. They tackled the greenhouse, turning over the soil and adding compost and peat. This prepared the beds for planting, and soon after, they laid down seeds for cabbages. The students also created a dedicated herb garden and a wild garden to attract pollinators and local wildlife.
The physical work was a major part of the transformation, including laying paving stones to create accessible paths. This year’s effort has yielded not just vegetables and herbs, but a beautiful and functional outdoor space. The allotment now serves as a testament to the students’ hard work and dedication, proving that with teamwork and perseverance, a “complete mess” can be turned into a vibrant, productive community garden.
