Welcoming New Faces and Reuniting Friends
This half-term has been filled with the energy of new beginnings, as we’ve had the pleasure of working with fresh cohorts of young people from Haringey Learning Partnership, Oasis Academy South Bank, Skinners Academy, and Kensington Aldridge Academy, in partnership with AllChild. We also enjoyed welcoming Haberdashers Borough Academy and John Burns Primary School for special one-off visits. The reunion with John Burns Primary School was particularly heartwarming, as we saw the Year 5 group reconnect after their time at our Lewes Farm. It was truly special to witness their joy and hear about the positive progress they’d made since their farm stay.
Sowing Seeds and Growing Connections
Our garden has been a hive of activity, with young people planting a variety of seeds: peas, radishes, chard, cress, leeks, and nicotiana (beautiful flowers grown from seeds harvested here last year). It’s been wonderful to see the seeds germinate, allowing students on six-week programs to witness the growth of their own efforts. We’ve also started harvesting our winter salad, which has been a delicious addition to the pizzas and bolognaise prepared by our visiting school groups.
Witnessing Transformative Impact
We’ve been deeply moved by the impact of our programs this half-term. The needs of our young visitors have varied, from those seeking respite and reflection during challenging life transitions to those building confidence and friendships. One young woman, after her fourth session, shared that she’d had “one of the best days of my life and made new friends.” These moments remind us of the power of our work.
Shakespeare on Wheels: Handlebards Return!
Mark your calendars! On Friday, May 23rd, the Handlebards are returning to Oasis Farm Waterloo for their delightful production of Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing.” As always, the entire set, costumes, and actors will arrive and depart by bicycle, adding a unique and whimsical touch to the performance. For tickets and more information, please visit: https://www.handlebards.com/
We are so grateful for your continued support, which allows us to create these meaningful experiences for young people in the heart of Waterloo.
