St. Raphael’s Edible Garden

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. Access is currently permitted to registered volunteers on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from 10am to 1pm. A maximum of 6 volunteers can access the garden at one time.

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.

If you would like to volunteer at the Community Garden, please complete our Volunteer Registration Form and a member of staff will be in touch with you.

If you would like to make an inquiry about the courses and activities, please get in touch by emailing:  admin@sufra-nwlondon.org.uk.

Courses and Activities

We’ve organised a number of FREE fun and creative horticultural activities to support local residents, our food bank guests and people with additional support needs. Registration in advance is required. If you are interested in any of the below and would like more information, 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!  

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.  

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!  

This is a 6–week course which will take place on Sundays from 2pm to 4pm

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 

Tipi Reading Time

Join us on a Friday evening, in the Community Garden’s flagship Tipi to wind down after a busy week, to put your little ones to bed while listening to some bed time stories! Wear your pyjamas and a coat. Bring your slippers – or your trainers. Bring Mum, Dad or another adult and listen to some dreamy relaxing stories.

Friday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00pm