A Garden With Many Uses is a wellbeing project created with young people with additional needs who attend St. Patrick’s School in Enniscorthy. Beginning with one of the core themes of permaculture which is ‘people care’, artist Laura Flood will work with the young people to create and develop an outdoor permaculture garden space that supports their wellbeing and learning. 

The young people will use their creativity to help to design the garden, and they will plant flowers, berries and herbs that can be picked and used in art and cookery classes. Ensuring the plants have multiple uses enable the young people to connect with the earth and the environment, and develops their creative thinking when applying the practices to their learning.

The garden will also be a spot where the young people can go if they need some quiet time to reflect and regulate. An important aspect of the garden is that it will be dedicated to the students of St. Patrick’s who have died in recent years. Symbolic plants and materials will be used to represent grief and those who have passed away. A private shelter with seating will be made out of willow and can be used all year, and sensory elements such as a pebble pathway, scented plants and a water feature will be included. The garden will be fully wheelchair accessible all year round. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.