Growing With Schools (Coventry)
“Teachers’ lack of knowledge and confidence in the field of horticulture means that they need the support of a specialist to make the best use of their school grounds.” (Growing Schools Evaluation, CEE/Bath University, 2003)
Awareness and support for hands-on growing activities in schools are increasing. Numerous resource and information packs are now available, but what staff in many schools need is personalised support from knowledgeable individuals.
The ‘Growing With Schools’ hub project was set up to do just this for schools in Coventry. It is funded by The JJ Charitable Trust and the Mark Leonard Trust and managed by the Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens. Coventry Education Business Partnership and Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School and Language College are the other partners.
News Update:
Growing With Schools project now has its own group on Facebook.
Green-fingered children in Coventry showcased their growing skills at an event to celebrate the results so far of the Growing With Schools project. For more details and images, visit the GWS Celebration page.
Download our most recent newsletter: 
GWS newsletter spring 2010
Information Resources: A series of downloadable PDF documents giving useful tips and advice for school-based growers.
GWS Info Sheet - Weekend Watering
GWS sowing-harvesting calculator
Case Studies: Inspiring case studies of schools which have benefitted from the Growing With Schools project.
GWS Case Study - Frederick Bird School
Other Publications:
GWS Booklet - documents the development of this work based on the experience at Cardinal Wiseman. Written specifically for other schools and local authorities that might be interested in working in this way: GWS - Booklet
GWS Leaflet: An introductory leaflet giving details about the project: GWS - Leaflet
GWS Interactive Calendars: GWS - Calendar Flyer
Growing With Schools Contacts:
John Hirons, Senior Development Worker
Email:
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Keeley Thomas, Development Worker
Email:
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Growing With Schools
Room 16
Koco Building
The Arches
Spon End
Coventry CV1 3JQ
