The Vegetable Plot, Eastling

So many children and young people these days have no idea where their food comes from. Burgers, chips and the infamous "Turkey Twizzlers" are far too common and healthy food and eating could easily become a thing of the past.

The Vegetable Plot is designed and aims to raise the awareness of just that to primary school children from disadvantaged urban areas in Kent and the South East.

In the depths of the countryside lurks a mysterious but very knowledgeable character known as Witscuttle! From his secret hideaway in the woodland next door to the Vegetable Plot, he watches over the plot to ensure that all is well....................

.............. and his mission is to ensure that visitors have the opportunity to learn about healthy eating and living.

Seen by the children as an exciting outdoor laboratory, the visits allow them to begin to understand all aspects of planting, growing, harvesting and cooking food, together with the changing seasons and life cycles of plants, fruit and vegetables which are apparent at the plot. Many of them have never had the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder that is the countryside and all that it holds.

Running in parallel is the Rural Leaders Course focusing on young people (10-19 years) living in rural villages, who are disadvantaged by being socially and geographically isolated. The project steers them away from crime and anti-social behaviour, whilst teaching them traditional and environmentally friendly rural skills and crafts including maintenance and construction on the plot leading onto, propagation, planting, harvesting, cooking and preserving of organically grown fruit and vegetables.

Produce is sold to local communities in the form of jams, preserves and fruit and vegetable boxes with all proceeds being re-invested in the project. The stables allow them to learn horsemanship, whilst the woodlands and ponds, ensure conversation and education around wildlife and the natural environment.