Welcoming Old Friends and New Beginnings
March has been a month of heartwarming reunions and exciting new connections at Jamie’s Farm. We were thrilled to welcome back familiar faces from Carew Academy, who once again impressed us with their determination and resilience. Nobel School arrived just in time to witness the magic of lambing season, a truly special experience! We also extended a warm welcome to our new partners from E-ACT Academy, who embraced the glorious weather and threw themselves into farm life with enthusiasm.
Our visit to Farnborough Academy in Nottingham was a highlight, filled with laughter and fond memories shared with our Jamie’s farmers. The competitive games were a blast, and it was wonderful to reconnect!
Spring Planting and Regeneration
Spring has sprung, and our farm is buzzing with planting activity! The polytunnel is a hive of productivity, promising a bountiful harvest in the coming months. We’ve also been busy replanting hedges across the farm, with our young visitors playing a vital role. A huge thank you to Molly and Lucinda from the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Wye Valley National Landscape Team for coordinating volunteers who’ve planted hundreds of native saplings. Their invaluable work is crucial for enhancing our biodiversity, creating habitats for countless creatures.
We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tom Till, our dedicated volunteer, who has poured countless hours into planting around our new eco-cabins. His meticulous planning and tireless effort are transforming the landscape, contributing to the beauty and sustainability of our farm.
Nurturing Nature and Livestock
Our planting efforts are not only for the benefit of the environment but also for our farm animals. The new hedgerows and saplings will provide vital shelter and food sources, creating safe and shaded areas for our livestock. The increased biodiversity will attract a variety of insects, enriching their diets. These natural barriers will also help guide our animals safely across the farm, ensuring their well-being.
Farewell to Michelle Burton
It is with a heavy heart that we bid a fond farewell to our Therapeutic Coordinator, Michelle Burton, who has been an integral part of Jamie’s Farm since March 2021. Michelle’s infectious enthusiasm, unwavering cheerfulness, and joyful spirit have touched the lives of thousands of young people, leaving a lasting impact on our hearts. We will miss her dearly, but we are excited for her next adventure.
Building Skills and Supporting Wildlife
This month, our students took on the challenge of building bat and bird boxes, a testament to their courage and determination. Despite never having used a saw before, they carefully measured and cut the wood, creating safe havens for local wildlife. This simple act of kindness reflects the core of Jamie’s Farm: nurturing confidence, resilience, and a deep connection to nature.
Thank you for your continued support, which enables us to create these transformative experiences for young people and enhance the natural beauty of our farm.
