Perfect Pots

Perfect Pots!

A team of young men with Autism and Severe Learning Difficulties are overcoming all the odds by running a successful business, growing a wide range of bedding plants and bulbs which they plant up into pots and hanging baskets for sale to the public.

Based at the Holbrook Centre for Autism, they developed an interest in plants and horticulture and chose this to be the focus of their work-related learning at 14. They began to attend Broomfield College one morning a week where they planted a range of bedding plants from seed.

They planted some up into hanging baskets which they then sold on to staff and parents at the Holbrook Centre. As with all student enterprises, the profits are theirs to spend, save or re-invest. The team chose to put some of the profits aside to buy more seeds and compost the following year and spent the rest on a day out bowling.

The hanging baskets were of such a high quality that they attracted many compliments from admiring neighbours. The following year the boys took orders from the public, including pub landlords Ian and Annette Edwards of the Queens’ Head, Riddings.

This year the boys have a poly-tunnel at the Holbrook Centre so have been able to grow even more plants. Summer hanging baskets and patio pots will be available at local Farmer’s Markets, Well-dressings and Summer Fairs.

The school’s perspective:

The boys are not simply learning how to care for plants. They have conducted market research to discover what plants and colour schemes were most popular. They take orders and keep accounts on a spreadsheet, keeping a close eye on their profit margin.

They have chosen a business name and produced publicity materials. They are learning to manage money. Most importantly, they have learnt to work as a team, solve problems and value each other’s contributions. They feel valued by their customers in school and the local community.

This is why each student at the Holbrook Centre has the opportunity to develop their skills in the context of running a small business based on their own interests and talents.

We hope one day to see them running a garden centre, a café and even a B&B.

A parent’s perspective:

“Daniel loves being outdoors, so this practical hands-on learning experience is great for him. It’s good for me to know he’s happy, he’s learning and he’s acquiring skills which will give him pleasure in adulthood, either as a hobby or perhaps continuing to sell hanging baskets and pots.”

Helen Smith, Parent Governor

The students’ views:

“Looking after plants helps me to relax.”

“I enjoy making the baskets.

I like the different colours.”

“I like going to college and looking after the plants.”

“I like watering the plants with Pat in the polytunnel.”

For more information contact Caroline Bell, Deputy Head on 01332 880208

or by email: carolineb2@holbrookautism.derbyshire.sch.uk