Volunteers Dig into Horticulture Course with Green Futures
At Grimsby Garden Centre, we love watching people grow – not just the plants! Some of our amazing volunteers have just started a City & Guilds Level 1 Horticulture Course with Green Futures, and they’re buzzing with excitement. They’ll be boosting some of their practical skills, and then sharing what they’ve learnt with other volunteers and service users at the centre.
We had a chat with Martin, Louis, and Skye to see how they’re getting on at the garden centre and what they’re looking forward to in the course.
Martin’s journey
“I have been both a member and a volunteer at Grimsby Garden Centre for a few years. I’m keen to improve my knowledge base, and the science aspect particularly interests me. There is no doubt in my mind that spending time in nature and green spaces is beneficial. It has certainly been the case for me.”
Martin clearly has a brain for science – we bet he’s going to be the one telling us all the fancy Latin plant names soon! It’s great to see his love for nature growing stronger every day.
Louis’ experience
“When I first came to Grimsby Garden Centre, it was a reason for me to leave my house and improve my social anxiety. By working with other service users and garden centre colleagues, I have become more confident and have learned new skills. Through the garden centre, I was offered a place on a Level 1 horticulture course at Green Futures. I’m confident that this qualification, alongside my volunteering, will improve my horticulture knowledge.”
Louis has come so far, and we love seeing him grow. His confidence is blooming, and we just know he’s going to be a horticulture whizz in no time.
Skye’s aspirations
“I began my journey at Grimsby Garden Centre to build my confidence and help with my anxiety in public spaces. I am now a volunteer, which allows me to support service users, guiding them through planting and nurturing the plants that we grow. I have recently started a Level 1 horticulture course run by Green Futures. My goal is to gain qualifications while doing my placement to enable me to gain employment in a horticulture environment.”
Skye is an absolute superstar! Not only is she learning loads, but she’s also helping others feel at home in the garden centre.
Our volunteers are proof that learning, nature, and a welcoming community can do wonders. We’re so excited to see where this journey takes them!
Feel like your confidence, mental health and wellbeing would be boosted by spending time us at Grimsby Garden Centre? Fill out this short form on the Navigo website.
