Growing Academy
This is Laurelbank Farm’s Organic Fruit and Vegetable Growing Course. It runs annually from February to October here at the farm.
This 30-week part-time course is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of organic fruit and vegetable cultivation. Students will learn about sustainable growing, soil health, propagation, pest management, and harvesting techniques, all within the context of organic growing.
“Jo really knows how to engage the class and has the perfect qualifications with both the academic background and the fact that she has and works an organic farm. She doesn't just tell us information but helps us work out and understand the principles of organic growing for ourselves.”
All the details…
The course will include both theory and hands-on practical sessions, to equip participants with all the skills and knowledge needed to grow organic fruits and vegetables successfully and easily.
This is a in-person course based at Laurelbank Farm – a 7-acre organically certified farm, outside Saintfield. County Down.
This is not an accredited course. However, we will have regular quizzes to reinforce learning and online teaching materials to enable students catch up if they miss a week or two.
The course will run for 30 weeks with a 3-hour class each week from mid-February to mid-October. There will be breaks from class for the Easter week and for a few weeks over the summer.
In 2025, classes will be held on Thursday mornings (and if there is enough interest for two classes) on Thursday evening. Classes will be 3 hours in duration.
No prior growing / horticultural experience is necessary. This course is the perfect introduction for anyone interested in organic growing practices, who would like to learn how to grown their own fruit and vegetables.
This course is for adults aged 18 years and over.
Full details for the 2025 course will be published shortly. Make sure you’re signed up to our mailing list if you want to be first to know about it.
Email jo@laurelbankfarm.org if you have any questions about the course.