The allotment at Holmfirth J, I & N School needs to be updated and made much larger as the current allotment size is now too small to cater for the schools 200 pupils. Each year class would have there own dedicated patch within the allotment to grow vegetables or flowers and to encourage an outside activity within a secure safe environment. Vegetables, fruit and flowers could be grown by seed within the allotment space. By enlarging the allotment that currently measures approx. 3m x 10m to 7.5m x 14m, all children, including any needing mobilty access will be catered for with raised beds, so every child will have the same opportunity to enjoy this popular activity during their school attendance. The vegetables and fruit grown could then provide children with food they have grown as part of their lunchtime meal. A company named "GROW to school" will supply a supported gardening resource 6 times in the first year, including plants, working with children and teachers together.

What we'll deliver:

• New 2m high fencing on four sides to replace old perimeter fence
• Ensure access for any child with mobility issues are catered for
• Resources to educate Children on growing in an allotment
• Provide the school with an asset to be used by children every year
• A well stocked 6' x 10' storage shed and 10' x 10' Polytunnel

Why it's a great idea:

Having an allotment to cater for children of any age encourages high quality curriculum learning in a healthy safe environment. Learning how to plant seeds, care for them and watch them grow educates them in a fun way so they know that they can see the results of their activities from start to finish. Children can work both individually, in pairs, groups or as a class and then enjoy picking the fruit or digging up the vegetables. To go into an allotment, putting on some welly boots, gloves using a watering can, digging the ground, these are skills that can then be carried on outside of school time at home and throughout the childrens lives. With a small polytunnel/greenhouse on the allotment, seed trays can be placed once filled and labelled. Seasonal planting of pumpkin seeds in advance of Halloween for example keeps childrens interest going throughout the entire year. Extra outside activities will help the current issues of child obesity and encouraging snacks of fruit & vegetables.

Steps to get it done:

• Fitting out the allotment with all equipment needed to create a living environment.
• Build the 10' x 10' Polytunnel, already bought and equip for plant growing.
• Plant 10 various M26 stock fruit trees around the allotment perimeter

Holmepride - Community in Action are pleased to be working with the assistance of Kirklees based project - Growing Great Places, where there is a current fund available up to £5k to match funds raised through fundraising, so we need as much help and support from local businesses and individuals.