During the Spring term, Year 10 and Year 11 Castle School pupils have been completing hours towards the Volunteering section of their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. They have been making an incredible impact in the local community by supporting Down to Earth, a nature-based regeneration organisation in Derby City who create exciting spaces where ‘people connect, culture blooms and nature takes the spotlight
This involves travelling to the Electric Daisy site in the city centre, a once forgotten space that has been turned into a vibrant hub of activity, and support Down to Earth’s hard work by helping with Land Management, Grounds Maintenance and Community Garden projects.
The work our learners have been doing will have a lasting impact on both the environment and the local community. They have started to help rejuvenate areas that were once underused and turned them into vibrant, sustainable spaces that people can enjoy for years to come. Their contribution is vital to making Derby a greener, more environmentally friendly city, whilst also appreciating the significance and benefits of volunteering.
Through their efforts, they have gained hands-on experience in environmental regeneration. Whether it’s learning how to manage a garden, restore natural habitats, or work with a team, these skills will help them both for their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award and in future life.
Future projects during the term will involve preparing new planters, upcycling old ones, planting seeds and bedding in seedlings – something our learners are really looking forward to, especially in the sunshine!
