Organic farming does more to protect natural resources such as fresh water and wildlife and is also better for animal welfare, free from GM ingredients, hydrogenated fats and most artificial additives and preservatives.
As a group we have always cared about the food we serve every day and the positive impact this has on our children’s mental and physical health. Our chefs care about where their ingredients come from and are passionate about great, varied menus that minimise processed foods and unhealthy additives. It is a natural step for our nurseries to also think about the impact our served food has on nature and the environment, providing even more learning opportunities for the children.
In our organic nurseries the children learn to how to grow, tend and harvest their own produce in our Grow Our Own Club. They learn about the different environments plants need in order to grow, the different types of fruit and vegetables that grow at certain times of the year and how to cook and use their produce for eating.
The allotments and growing beds are in the gardens of the nurseries and can be accessed all-year-round.
Partnering with SOIL Association and Food For Life, we are working towards achieving the Gold standard accreditation. Our current Bronze level represents a significant step towards improving food standards.
If food is a love in your household, take up gardening. The process of building and tending to a vegetable patch together is hugely beneficial in allowing some one-to-one time. It will encourage time spent outdoors, getting your hands dirty, and growing food to then prepare and share for supper. This is an entire cycle where children can see where food comes from and appreciate the time and effort in the process of tending to plants.
The Old Station Nursery Organic Enhancement Promise ensures that children will eat organic food at least once a day. We are committed to providing nutritious and high-quality meals that support children’s growth and well-being. Click the button below to view a sample of a typical organic food menu at the nursery.
Your organic enhancement nursery will have the correct equipment and soil to cultivate organic fruit and vegetables.
The children are equipped with child-friendly gardening equipment and aprons.
Your nursery team will be trained in and will follow an organic food education curriculum.
Both of our daughters have gone to hdc Dartington and both love it. Our youngest is currently in The Meadow (toddler room) and runs in excitedly each morning. They do loads of fun activities with the children, like baking, painting, making music, growing vegetables in the garden and lots of free play.
My child has been attending this setting since it opened. Staff are friendly and have a lovely relationship with the children. Kind and caring. All staff are approachable and happy to answer any questions or provide support where needed. Communication is good. My child has come on so much with their development since attending this setting. They are looked after well and happy. Food is cooked on-site and the nursery have its own allotment where the children can grow vegetables. Would recommend this setting to anyone looking.
Both of our children have been to hdc Dartington and absolutely flourished there. They both enjoy the outside space and the gardening activities on offer and we love the value that this nursery places on being outdoors. The manager is doing a fantastic job of managing hdc Dartington and we would also like to particularly thank three staff members. Who have all been so kind and who our kids have loved being with and have really benefitted from their guidance.
The Old Station Nursery organic promise is that your child will eat organic food at least once a day.
We will always take this into account when planning gardening activities and where possible find an alternative.
Your budding gardener will be wearing nursery apron and gloves to really look the part.
We’ll be pleased to show you the organic growing areas. The ParentZone App and your nursery Facebook page are also great places to see our Budding Gardeners in action.