London: Planting seeds of community at Newman Catholic College

Photo by Artem Makarov on Unsplash

Source: Archbishops House

Catholic schools and colleges across Westminster Diocese are not only places where students are encouraged to reach their academic potential, but also where they are inspired to become active, caring members of their communities.

At Newman Catholic College, in Harlesden, north London, the Gardening Club is a shining example of this ethos in action. Students take an active role in maintaining and improving the school grounds, planting flowers, and creating a stronger sense of pride in their college environment.

Beyond making the college grounds more beautiful, there is also the College's Community Garden, which, together with a team of dedicated volunteers, grows fresh produce for local foodbanks. Among these is the NCC Foodbank, established in partnership with Caritas during the COVID-19 pandemic to support local people in need.

Earlier this year, the college was honoured with a visit from HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, who came to celebrate the school's gardening programme and its wider community outreach initiatives.

We spoke with some of the Gardening Club students about why they signed up, and their experience of the club.

Samillulah, a student from Iran: 'Where I come from, we love nature-there are mountains and plants everywhere. Every day, I used to garden with my grandfather, and I still remember his poetry. When I came to Newman Catholic College and joined the Gardening Club, it gave me the chance to reconnect with that part of my life. It's really been good for me.'

The Head of the Youth Gardening Group: "I started this club at the beginning of last year. It's been an amazing experience-a way to relieve the stress of exams and everyday challenges. I feel proud that we've brought more life to the garden and the school."

Jobella: "I first joined with a friend when we didn't have lessons. Now, seeing how beautiful the grounds look makes me so happy. My friends often say, 'Wow, the flowers are so colourful!' Every time I see them, I feel alive again."

Through the efforts of these dedicated students, Newman Catholic College continues to nurture not only its gardens, but also the values of care, community, and hope that make its school grounds bloom in more ways than one.

LINK

Newman Catholic College: www.ncc.brent.sch.uk/