Community garden nurtures skills and independence in neurodivergent learners

11 neurodivergent learners take part in Edvance’s Good to Great education programme at Ōhaupō Community Gardens in Kirikiriroa.

The learners — many of whom have autism spectrum disorder — have nurtured the garden into a flourishing patch overflowing with fresh herbs, capsicums, tomatoes, carrots, chives, and silverbeet. Nearby sits a new chook pen where the chickens are fed, cuddled, and cared for by everyone.

Throughout the week, the learners spend time in the classroom improving their literacy and numeracy. The classmates jostle and joke with each other, and it is clear their friendships run deep.

The warm, inclusive environment at this Community Living farm is a stark contrast to many of the adults’ experiences at school.

We are SO PROUD of all the ConneXu Partners who participate in this programme and who are featured in this awesome video story.

Keep up the great work Caleb, Kirwan, Holly, Stevie, Jayden, Kaa, Nigel and team!