So far, winter has been filled with new faces, joyful celebrations and hard work on the farm.
Highlights from Visiting Groups
We began November by welcoming back Cardiff Children Services, who brought energy and laughter to the farm. A standout moment was a Halloween celebration in our Welcome Barn, complete with fancy dress, pumpkin carving, games, and delicious food—a wonderful evening of togetherness.
A group from Coop Priesthorpe impressed us with their curiosity and resilience during their first time away from home. They cared for the animals with dedication, built friendships, and unearthed a bumper crop of potatoes, filling the week with fun and achievement.
The young people of Valley Leadership Academy stood out for their teamwork and perseverance. Highlights included creating a new chicken enclosure, enjoying stunning views of the Wye Valley’s autumnal colors, and indulging in homemade apple crumble, a clear favorite!
We ended the month with Harris Academy Chobham, whose students pushed themselves out of their comfort zones, showing potential and teamwork. From moving sheep to settling new calves into their pens, their efforts on the farm shone brightly. Walking and exploring together became a beloved way to unwind after busy days.
Day Visits and Community Connections
Local groups continued to bring joy to the farm during day visits. Overmonnow Primary students, regular visitors, delighted us with their enthusiasm while helping care for the animals and complete jobs around the farm. ACT JGW+ joined us for an afternoon of outdoor activities and reflection, strengthening friendships and savoring the farm experience despite their short stay.
Follow-Ups and Special Celebrations
We love reconnecting with past visitors, and this month Michelle, Ellie, and Baylee visited Charters School to hear stories of personal growth since their Jamie’s Farm experience. Sharing their celebration film and messages from the team brought joy to all.
Jo attended the Bright Sparks Awards hosted by Cardiff Children Services, where October’s visitors received certificates. A round of applause and their celebration film made it a memorable evening of recognition for their hard work.
Farming Update
Torrential rain returned this month, making the fields soggy, but the cattle are thriving indoors, enjoying herbal ley silage. The rams have been taken out, and we eagerly await scanning results to check their success. Our new chickens have started laying, delighting visitors with the chance to collect and cook fresh eggs.
We also welcomed 10 new calves from Marshfield, who have quickly settled into their pens and become favorites among our young visitors.
Welcoming New Team Members
We’re excited to introduce two new members to our team! Tom Wadsworth joins us as Senior Visit Coordinator, and Sarah Morgan as a sessional worker. Both bring valuable experience to our work, and we look forward to the energy and skills they’ll contribute.
Thank you to all our supporters for helping us make these life-changing experiences possible. We’re looking forward to closing out the year with even more stories of growth, connection, and transformation.
