The SAND Project and Gardner + Scardifield Garden Centre: A Blossoming Partnership
In the heart of West Sussex, a wonderful collaboration is blossoming, transforming lives and cultivating confidence. The SAND Project, a fantastic initiative dedicated to empowering trainees, has teamed up with the ever-welcoming Gardner + Scardifield Garden Centre. This partnership is as heartwarming as it is inspiring!
Growing Confidence and Skills
The SAND Project is all about giving hands-on job training to those looking to jumpstart their careers. Gardner + Scardifield shares this vision, making them the perfect partner. Together, they're offering work experience that equips trainees with practical skills while boosting their confidence and sense of achievement.
Nathan Gale, from Gardner + Scardifield, puts it best:
“It’s been great working with The SAND Project, seeing all the amazing things they do to help the trainees get into the workplace. It has been very rewarding seeing the trainees, with the help of their job coach, integrate into our garden centre team, working alongside our G&S colleagues. I think we are on our fourth or fifth intake, and seeing each trainee’s skill set has been very interesting, whether it has been serving customers or building benches and sheds. But most importantly, we can see the way they grow in confidence.”
SAND Project trainee Kelvin showing his carpentry skills
Real-World Experience
From the moment trainees arrive at Gardner + Scardifield Garden Centre, they’re welcomed with open arms. They dive into tasks like helping customers, organizing displays, and even building benches and sheds. Every task is a chance to learn and grow, making each day an exciting adventure.
With the support of dedicated job coaches, trainees receive the personalized guidance they need to succeed. This one-on-one support helps them overcome any initial jitters and really shine in their roles.
Building More Than Just Benches
What’s truly special about this partnership is watching the trainees’ confidence bloom. They start off a bit nervous, but soon they’re chatting with customers and taking on bigger projects. It’s not just about the work they do; it’s about the growth they experience.
Each intake of trainees brings something new and exciting. They come with different skills and personalities, making every group unique. Whether it’s serving customers with a smile or showing off their craftsmanship in the workshop, every trainee leaves a lasting impact.
A Rewarding Journey
The journey with The SAND Project and Gardner + Scardifield is a rewarding one for everyone involved. For the trainees, it’s a chance to gain real-world experience and build confidence. For the team at Gardner + Scardifield, it’s incredibly fulfilling to watch these individuals grow and succeed.
SAND Project graduate Brandon thriving during his time with Gardner + Scardifield
“Seeing the trainees grow in confidence has been the most rewarding part. We’re now on our fourth or fifth intake, and it’s been amazing to see each trainee bring something special to the team.”
A Flourishing Future
The partnership between The SAND Project and Gardner + Scardifield Garden Centre is just the beginning. With each new intake, more lives are transformed, and more skills are developed. This collaboration is proof that when a community comes together, amazing things can happen.
As this partnership continues to flourish, we look forward to seeing even more trainees bloom into confident, skilled individuals ready to take on the world. Here’s to many more years of growth, learning, and success!