Innovative outdoor educational opportunties for people of all ages and abilities.

Five A Day Market Garden is a volunteer led not-for-profit community supported project which aims to engage the rural and urban community. We sell affordable, healthy, naturally grown produce. With a focus on gardening, art, nature and the environment our group runs Community Education projects for children, adults and older people. We also encourage people to get active in our project through volunteering."

Why the community needs this charity

Offering a range of opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to learn about topics including growing their own food sustainably, healthy eating and healthy lifestyles, enjoying and looking after wildlife and getting creative with Environmental Art. Participants increase their social networks and enjoy the benefits of gentle exercise. People can purchase healthy and locally grown fruit and vegetables.

Results and outcomes

The educational components of the project have increased people's knowledge in growing their own food at home and looking after wildlife. Many have reported an increase in fitness and an improvement in mental well-being and self-confidence. Volunteers have improved social networks and a real sense of achievement. Our customers have said our strawberries are the tastiest they've ever tried!

Latest activities and projects

The Edible Classroom

An 'edible classroom' at Five A Day would be an innovative outdoor teaching area. We would like to build a wooden pergola and plant a living surround using fruit trees and climbing grape vines and hops. read more

The Green Gang

The Green Gang project will work with local special schools in Reading and Newbury and offer children with special educational needs the opportunity to participate in sessions in the market garden. The children and young people will enjoy fun, hand on experiences in gardening, wildlife and eco art. Additionally, participants develop a long term improvement in their eating habits and enjoy a more active lifestyle. Moreover, being involved in the project will increase their social networks a read more

The Green Team

The Green Team project will give adults with learning disabilities the opportunity to participate in regular gardening sessions and learn transferable skills in food growing, sustainability and looking after wildlife.  read more