Learning for Life & Work students at Cheshire College – South & West’s Crewe Campus have unveiled a redeveloped community garden, courtesy of The Prince’s Trust and the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.

At a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the garden, Learning for Life & Work students served tea, coffee and an assortment of homemade baked goods to thank the volunteers for their hard work.

Ashley Woods, Assistant Programme Manager at the Prince’s Trust for Crewe commented: “All-in-all it took about ten days for us to get the garden ready and we’re really pleased with the result. It was a huge collaborative effort and even the joinery students at the College got involved to help build some planters for us.

“We’ve left some bulbs and seeds for the students to plant for themselves, so that they can really make the space their own.”

Staff anticipate that the garden will be a multi-functional resource for students, serving as a mindful area to recharge, as well as a place to discover practical living skills. Assistant Director for Entry Level Callum Carey said that the space will be an extension of the student’s on-site training flat: “The garden allows students to practice lots of skills which will help them to live independently. Planting and watering flowers, leaving food for the birds, even growing their own fruit and vegetables which they can then cook in the training flat.

“We’re extremely fortunate to have such a good working relationship with local employers and charities; and we can’t thank the volunteers enough for this incredible redesign.”

Learning for Life & Work courses are designed for young people aged 16-24 with or without EHCPs who have learning difficulties or disabilities. Cheshire College aims to deliver courses to support young people onto a pathway where they can succeed.

Throughout their studies Learning for Life & Work students have access to well-resourced training flat, sensory kitchen and garden at the Crewe Campus, and an independent living area and tablet-based computers at Ellesmere Port Campus. Visit www.ccsw.ac.uk to find out more.