Our beautiful Community Garden emerged from a local campaign by residents to develop a food growing project for the community. With the help of hundreds of volunteers, St. Raphael’s Edible Garden now has a teaching tipi, a chicken coup, a wildlife pond, a fruit tree orchard, compost bins, plenty of raised beds and a stunning pergola. 

Although the garden is managed and run by Sufra NW London, it is here to benefit the community. The garden provides a therapeutic space from where we can invest in the skills, health and wellbeing of local people whilst improving the appearance of the estate and giving residents an opportunity to come together, have fun and grow food. 

Apart from producing a wide range of fresh fruit, vegetables and eggs that can be distributed at our Food Bank or used to prepare food in our Community Kitchen, we usually run a wide range of services and activities available for anyone who wants to get involved.

Coronavirus Service Update

To help manage the risks posed by Coronavirus, we have implemented a number of health and safety procedures to protect our guests, volunteers and staff members. All those attending the Community Garden will be required to sanitise their hands upon arrival, must have a mask or face covering with them and will be required to socially distance. A maximum of 5 households are permitted to access the garden at one time, with a limit of 3 individuals per household.

If you would like to make an enquiry about the Edible Garden, please get in touch by emailing:  admin@sufra-nwlondon.org.uk.

Courses and Activities 

We’ve organised a number of fun and creative horticultural activities to support local residents and people with additional support needs. Dates for rounds are continuously being updated. If you are interested in any of the below, please contact  admin@sufra-nwlondon.org.uk.

Growing Club 

Participants in our Growing Club will get to sow and grow a range of vegetables from scratch whilst learning about all aspects of growing, from soil quality to pest control. Combining elements of social horticultural therapy, attendees will be encouraged to engage their senses by getting their hands dirty! 

Every Wednesday for 6 weeks from 2pm to 4pm

– Round 2: 28th October to 2nd December

– Round 3: 13th January to 17th February

Every Saturday for 6 weeks from 11am to 1pm

– Round 2: 17th October to 21st November

– Round 3: 9th January to 13th February

Chicken Club  

Where do chickens sleep? How many eggs can they lay? Can chickens fly? If you’re curious to find out, we have the answers! Join our weekly AQA accredited Chicken Club to learn about chicken origins, social behaviours, starting a family, feeding, chicken welfare and managing a brood of chickens. 

Suitable for families and young people, but those under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult. 

Every Saturday for 6 weeks from 2pm to 4pm

– Round 1: 19th September to 24th October

– Round 2: 14th November to 19th December

– Round 3: 9th January to 13th February

Forest Academy (Children aged 7–11 & 12-16) – £10 refundable deposit required: 

With the support of funding from Brent Council, we have developed a FREE Forest School programme for children aged 7-11 & 12-16. Forest Schools are an amazing opportunity for children to develop their knowledge and skills in a natural outdoor environment. The academy encourages children to challenge themselves and take risks safely. Typical activities include: cooking over a campfire, exploring, building outdoor shelters, whittling, sensory walks, foraging, nature art and much, much more! 

Every Sunday for 6 weeks, from 2pm to 4pm

– Round 1: 4th October to 8th November

– Round 2: 15th November to 20th December

– Round 3: 17th January to 21st February

– Round 4: 28th February to 28th March (session on 27th & 28th)

Artisanal Workshops 

Explore the garden to find resources from nature to make beautiful art! Past sessions include candle making, herbal tea testing, growing fridge magnets and floral bookmarks. Bring your own ideas to the group and let’s get creative with nature!  

Suitable for families and young people, but those under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Every Thursday from 4pm to 6pm

– Round 1: 8th October to 12th November

– Round 2: 14th January to 18th February