Grow to School CIC

Grow to School CIC works with schools to create sustainable pathways to increasing access to the outdoors, enhancing educational experiences and outcomes for all children.

Our work facilitates hands-on outdoor learning and food growing opportunities for Pre-school, Early Years and Primary settings. To achieve this, we provide support, training, and easy to use resources, that enable schools to:

• grow, cook & taste fresh food.
• learn about and engage with the natural environment.
• deliver their curriculum outdoors.
• upskill teaching staff to take children outside
• maximise their outdoor spaces to support learning outdoors

Our work is grounded in the principles of nature-based education, which emphasises the importance of spending active time outdoors to foster a deep connection with the natural world.  This connection not only enhances children's physical and mental health but also supports their cognitive and emotional development. With an informed awareness of the needs of children with SEND including SEMH, Grow to School ensures everyone equally benefits from the joys of being outdoors. Evidence from our work over the past 10 years shows that outdoor learning can help raise attainment, improve behaviour, build resilience, and make learning more accessible for all pupils. By facilitating hands-on outdoor learning experiences, we help all children develop practical life skills, increase their environmental awareness, and foster a lifelong love for learning.

One of our key initiatives is integrating food growing into school curriculums. By supporting schools to grow, cook, and taste fresh food, we provide children with valuable opportunities to engage with the natural environment and learn where their food comes from. This approach not only promotes healthy eating habits but also enriches the educational experience by incorporating elements of science, geography, and environmental stewardship. As Karen Coates, Head of School at Netherhall St James C of E (VC) Infant and Nursery School, shared, "The children love the sessions where they are learning outside. We can already see an impact on their self-esteem and mental health." Through our comprehensive programmes, we aim to create sustainable pathways for schools to maximize their outdoor spaces, supporting both the curriculum and the well-being of students and staff.