FAIRFIELD Farm College has once again had an action-packed 2021, filled with both challenges and reward.
Our 125 students have been incredibly flexible in the face of the ever-changing pandemic, but they didn’t let it stop their learning.
Students were able to make good use of the on-site café, post office and other vocational learning facilities at the 26-acre college based in Dilton Marsh. Many students also visit Hope Nature Centre in Southwick Country Park regularly, helping with the running of the café and animal park.
Fairfield Farm Trust is the charitable organisation that encompasses both Fairfield Farm College and Hope Nature Centre, with the charity’s main aim to provide learning, facilities and opportunities for young adults with disabilities. Fairfield Farm College launched an Independent Living Centre on-site at the campus in early 2021, following an extensive refurbishment of the old farmhouse at the college.
It gave students a realistic home environment to learn a variety of skills, with the aim of teaching independent living skills. Students at the college learn many new employability skills when working with local employers, and the college has some great connections with local businesses that enable a wide range of work experiences.
Palmer Gardens, Wainwright Quarry, Stanley Black & Decker and Canal and River Trust are just a few examples of who the college works with. The college community has been incredibly strong throughout 2021, with plenty of events and fundraising efforts.
Some highlights include; a virtual bike ride to Buckingham Palace and back for Red Nose Day, collecting food donations for Westbury Community Project and raising money for Save The Children with Christmas Jumper Day. There have been many experiences in 2021 that the college has been lucky enough to be a part of. From virtual Q&A’s with top Paralympians to the 2021 Graduation, it has been a very busy year for the students.
2022 is set to be another exciting chapter in the Fairfield Farm College story, with the planned launch of a new pub and restaurant in Dilton Marsh, where students will be able to learn hospitality skills in a realistic working environment. Find out more and keep up to date on social media channels or on our website, ffc.ac.uk
By Joel Pagett
