Youth Orchard Group Initiative

Introduction

The first 8 fruit trees in Carrbridge Orchard were planted by the pupils of Carrbridge Primary School in June 2023.

Stewardship of the Orchard was always intended to include our Young People and thanks to the inspiring work by Mrs O'Reilly and the involvement in the Research Project on socioecological care conducted by Edinburgh University, the relationship between the pupils and place has become much stronger than was ever imagined.

An idea from Mrs O'Reilly became an opportunity to apply for funding from Cairngorm Trust YLAG programme and so the Youth Orchard Group Initiative (YOGI) was conceived.
(This acronym came from a question asked by a pupil about the Legend of Yogi's car -  so it seemed fitting, as the oven found when we cleared the site might also have been his !) 

This project is focussed on those who planted the initial trees and are now in S2, those who were part of the detailed study of the orchard now in S1 as well as the current cohort in P6/7. 

What's Involved?

• Sessions are Free, 

• they are once per month intended to be on 2nd Saturday of each month

• they will be outdoors unless weather is terrible then indoor sessions at the village hall are an option for the project

• Content will be co-created with the pupils and involve looking after the orchard and the ecosystems for encouraging biodiversity.

• They will track their progress, any learning, reflections and age appropriate skills badges which may link to other volunteering activities they undertake.

What do they need?

• warm personal clothing is recommended,, a limited number of Outer shell jackets are available if required.

• PPE will be provided - Gloves, safety glasses if required, Hi Viz vests and wellies if required (otherwise suitable footwear is required) 

• Youth sized tools to care for the orchard and wildflower meadows will be provided.

Are they Safe?

• They will gain an understanding of Health and Safety and Risk Management

• All adults working with the YOGI's will have been Disclosure Checked and undertaken Child Protection Training in line with our Child and Vulnerable Adult Policy