The SAND project is an independent education provider, based in Worthing. We specialise in securing future employment, developing works skills, confidence and independence, for young people aged 16-25 with special educational needs. The SAND Project offers a range of pathway options based on the career interests of our trainees, one of which is gardening. Gateway Gardens is our gardening pathway, and we are based at Humber Avenue Allotments twice a week. Once for our work experience program and another for our gardening pathway where we tend our own plot. (We do also do garden designing too - feel free to get in touch at www.thesandproject.co.uk)
The gardening pathway offers our trainees a huge amount of skill and knowledge development and also provides the seamless opportunity for wellbeing practice, as the young people toil in the soil, connect with each other and other plot holders, take notice of the creatures and plants around them and are active and enjoy being outdoors (in all weathers)! It’s also a great opportunity for the
trainees to grow and try new vegetables and fruit. There is simply nothing better than eating your own delicious produce! 

Gardening is proving to be a fantastic way to relax and reduce stress levels. In a world that’s increasingly fast-paced and digital, spending time at the allotment offers a much-needed connection to nature. It’s a place to unwind and to feel a part of something bigger. The benefits are already clear. It’s about more than just growing plants; it’s about growing people. It’s about providing
opportunities, nurturing skills, and building a sense of community. The SAND Project activity at Humber Avenue Community allotments has enabled a number of young people to develop a broad range of skills. These include communication and social skills, confidence building, knowledge of the environment and nature, and understanding that gardening provides an opportunity to

learn about healthy eating and nutrition. It has also provided an opportunity to improve physical fitness and improve the enjoyment of life as gardening is a great way to relax and reduce stress levels. Hopefully, this is a partnership that will develop over time.”
— Terry Chairperson at Humber Avenue Allotments