Inclusivity and accessibility at Walworth Garden, and why it wants more
Built on inclusivity, diversity and accessibility, Walworth Garden is training the next generation of gardeners. Determined to expand its services and availability, the garden approaches the finish line for London’s new Environmental Learning Centre.
Founded nearly 40 years ago, the once-derelict garden has grown into a community space, charity and City & Guilds accredited horticultural school while also offering its very own landscaping services.
The horticultural school, teaching both Level 1 and Level 2 horticultural courses, has been running environmental gardening courses as a means of offering people from all walks of life a starting point for a career in the industry. Highlighted across every service Walworth offers, from in-house recruitment and education cohorts, “inclusivity runs through everything that we do,” says Walworth Garden chief executive and head gardener, Oli Haden.
Inclusivity
Haden goes on to explain a points-based prioritisation system the team has devised. In creating this method, Walworth Garden is able to prioritise access for those from communities historically excluded from the sector. Not only underpinning their education work, this approach runs right into the employment process for staff, too. “We have these systems to make sure that no unconscious bias is at play,” explains Haden.
Admittedly, Haden continues, it can often be uncomfortable to challenge themselves regularly. From internalised misogyny and prejudice, Haden says “we need to be open and honest to make sure that this isn’t what’s taking place.” Instead, the team works collaboratively to challenge any internal bias to create an inclusive workplace, also reflective in its student body.
“It’s not like anywhere I’ve worked before,” shares Sarah Laughton, education manager, referring to both the inclusive and comforting atmosphere. This year, she explains, Walworth Garden is training 91 students. Across this cohort, 25 have shared that they have a disability, mental health condition, neurodiversity, or other condition that can impact their ability to access training.
And that’s why they do it. “Gardening itself is great for everyone, including people that have additional needs because it’s relaxing, nurturing. People can feel at home here,” Laughton explains.
Accessibility
Something Walworth really fought for was the inclusion of the Level 1 horticultural course, because, “we sometimes find that some applicants just didn’t feel that they could go straight into Level 2,” says Laughton. A more accessible course, Level 1 acts as a stepping stone some people might need as not only a way into the industry, but also as a confidence boost.
Boasting a kitchen, Walworth also cooks a plant-based meal for its community everyday. “I think the level of relaxedness that we offer enables our students to flourish. It creates a familial environment where they can be completely themselves,” Haden says.
One of the few training providers in the centre of London, Walworth Garden offers a unique and powerful approach to horticulture. An enhanced site with expanded teaching spaces, full accessibility features and facilities that welcomes everyone, from school groups to community gardeners and professionals, stands as the next goal.
Veolia Environment Trust has recognised the vital need for a centre that offers an inclusive space for the community to learn environmental skills and connect with nature. They join the visionaries at Kusuma Trust, Wolfson Foundation, and Southwark Council; as well as Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP, who have already pledged contributions to the project. “Their collective support brings us tantalisingly close to our goal,” says Haden.
Open to donations, Walworth Garden is looking for individuals or organisations who share its vision of environmental learning that is truly accessible to all. To donate, please find more information here.
