Joseph Norton Academy Wooden Spoon Farm Opens in Yorkshire

SATURDAY April 1st saw the opening of the Joseph Norton Academy Wooden Spoon Farm, in Scissett, Huddersfield.

Wooden Spoon Yorkshire Committee attended the opening of this fantastic project and the opening was also attended by parents, teachers and representatives of Kirklees Council. Wooden Spoon Yorkshire Region chairman Stuart Watson cut the ribbon to declare the project open, following which the farm manager gave a tour of the superb new facilities.

With the backing of Wooden Spoon Yorkshire the school has taken a run down garden area and transformed it into a mini farm.

A refurbished polytunnel and raised beds give the pupils the chance to grow their own food. Alongside this, the pigmy goats, chickens and rabbits help them enjoy the wonderful experience of animal husbandry. A pig enclosure has also been built, but a yew tree and its poisonous leaves need to be removed before pigs can be brought onto the farm.

The school is the areas only special school catering for pupils with complex social, emotional and mental health difficulties. As the head explained, the farm helps the pupils develop a sense of responsibility and empathy, improves their confidence and their ability to build relationships and work together. All in all an inspiring project for all involved.

Stuart Watson commended this as a project that Wooden Spoon members can be proud of for many years to come as it makes a big difference to the education and well-being of the pupils at the school.