Record achievements at blossoming gardening club

The club was set up during the pandemic as a six-week course, but the people who joined were so keen to continue that it has blossomed and grown.

32 participants received 1195 AQA Unit Award Scheme certificates between them.

Canon Rebecca Lloyd, Director of Learning and Participation for Gloucester Cathedral said, “It’s been a real joy to see this group grow over the past five years into such a supportive and welcoming community. What began as a short course has become a lasting expression of our Christian faith, offering friendship and purpose for those who take part. It’s a wonderful example of what it means to live out our faith in everyday life. Every one of the certificates awarded is a testament to those who help keep our grounds looking so beautiful.”

The group meets every Wednesday at 10.30am outside the front of the cathedral, where they do an hour of gentle gardening, followed by a drink and cake paid for by the cathedral.

Participants, friends, family and support workers attended the award ceremony to celebrate the achievements of the participants who were receiving AQA Unit Award Scheme certificates they have earned over the past year.

Canon Rebecca continued, “Gardening for Wellbeing aims to create a welcoming and inclusive space where participants can make friends, learn skills and take steps towards improving their wellbeing. All participants are registered formally as Cathedral volunteers, and they make a real difference to the presentation of the Cathedral grounds.

“All participants at the ceremony have come a long way since attending their first sessions, building confidence and communication skills.”