Learners transform outdoor community space

Learners from the Step Into Education programme have been making a real difference in the local community through their Social Action Project at the Wildbrook Community Food Growing Hub. 

Working in partnership with the Wildbrook team, students spent time volunteering on site to help prepare a new growing area for future planting. The project involved digging up and removing old bed planters, clearing unwanted wood, transporting soil and carefully levelling the ground to create a safe and usable space for the community. 

The experience has also provided learners with a valuable work experience opportunity. Students developed practical skills by using a range of tools and equipment, including spades, rakes, wheelbarrows and branch-cutting tools, while learning about teamwork, communication and health and safety in a real working environment.  

Throughout the week, learners showed excellent commitment and resilience, supporting each other with physically demanding tasks and taking pride in seeing the visible progress they were making. The project brought together students from different Step into Education groups, helping them to build confidence, form new friendships and work collaboratively towards a shared goal. 

One learner said, “It’s great to get involved in a project like this, getting outdoors and doing something hands-on. I really enjoyed myself. At first, I didn’t think I would, but once I got into it, it was good.” 

As well as contributing to their Duke of Edinburgh and Social Action Project, the activity has enabled students to experience the benefits of learning outside the classroom and to understand how their efforts can have a lasting, positive impact on the local community. 

Adam Blakeley, Head of Studies (Step into Education) said: “The Step into Education team are incredibly proud of our learners’ positive attitude, hard work and willingness to get involved. Their contribution will leave a lasting legacy at Wildbrook and stands as a fantastic example of young people developing employability skills while giving back to their community.”