The Pilton Community Farm Project is an exciting new alternative provision offered by the school. Nestled just behind Pathfield school and spread over more than two acres, the farm provides the perfect setting for students to explore and learn about horticulture and agriculture.
Since breaking ground in 2024, students have worked hard to transform an unused field into something rather special. Everything on the farm has been completed by the children. They have built raised beds, planted seeds and moved tonnes of earth and gravel to make paths and growing beds. It is quite an achievement and something they rightfully take pride in.
Whilst we have achieved a lot in just over a year, this is only the beginning. In the future we plan to have a new classroom built on site, get some animals and continue to grow so that we can keep providing a safe and engaging space for our students to learn.
Access to the farm is made by referral. If you feel a student would benefit from sessions with us, please contact their tutor or head of year. For external referrals, please contact our administration team.
If you would like to keep up to date with what is happening on the farm you can follow our progress on the Pilton School Facebook page and our own Instagram page @pilton.college.farm.
Meet the team:
Mark King
I am passionate about helping young people have better futures and believe that outdoor education can play a key role in this. With over 30 years of experience in agriculture – including 20 years as a herdsman and 13 as a head gardener – I’ve spent much of my life working closely with the land and the animals that depend on it. I have worked with the farm from the beginning, first as a volunteer and now as the Farm Manager. It is incredibly rewarding to see how the farm has transformed and how our students have flourished with it. I am keen to share my knowledge of horticulture and propagation with our students and foster a love of being outdoors and growing your own produce.
Lee Smith
I want to do the best for all young people regardless of their disabilities or barriers. For over thirty years I have worked in education, youth work, personal development and Social Care, always with the goal of making a positive difference in their lives. I hold a PGCE and Level 4 qualifications in Coaching, Advice and Guidance and Care of Young People. Over the years I have worked in mainstream settings, alternative provisions and independent special schools. I have a broad experience of working with SEND, SEMH and challenging behaviour. I also have five years' experience of delivering learning in outdoor settings and I'm Forest School trained.
