Thornton College outside

Spotlight Careers: Horticultural Therapist

Posted: 10th May 2023

wooden carriage

Bridewell Gardens is a mental health charity based near Oxford. Director Ruth Madder gave us a fantastic insight into the work they do and what employment in the Voluntary and Community Sector looks like.

The charity supports adults recovering from serious mental health challenges who are referred by the NHS. There are 8 employed staff and 20 volunteers who work with the ‘Gardeners’ (service users) providing social and therapeutic support through horticulture.

Ruth described the different backgrounds of the therapists and emphasised that personal qualities such as empathy and communication are absolutely vital, and more important than academic qualifications.

Eloise and Annie, our Head Girl and Deputy Head Girl, will visit Ruth at Bridewell next week, to learn more and share the designs for their wonderful Legacy Project planned for the Walled Garden at Thornton.

Categories: All Seniors Careers