AS part of its dedication to nurturing the minds of children throughout the Caribbean and promoting healthy eating habits, the Sandals Foundation’s garden project at Culloden Infant School in Whitehouse, Westmoreland, has seen remarkable growth.

The project, which is integral to the philanthropic organisation’s food security initiative, is also incorporated into the Reading Road Trip that offers guests at Sandals South Coast the opportunity to read to the students, engage in various literacy and arts and crafts activities, and participate in planting and harvesting from the garden.

The garden was bolstered by Sandals Foundation in September 2023, and in recent months the school has introduced ground provisions, herbs, food and fruit trees, mint, aloe vera, cabbage, pak choi, sweet pepper, lychee, melon, and cherry, among others, for the students to enjoy.

“We have been able to use the herbs and foods from the gardens to prepare meals for the students, which I think is an effective way to teach them how to appreciate our natural resources and healthy eating as well,” said Principal Michelle Whittingham.

She added that the students look forward to the visits from the Sandals South Coast guests on Thursdays as this isn’t just an educational opportunity, but also one for cultural exchange.

Class 2 student at the school, Zahlia Waite shared that she looks forward to the activities done with the Sandals South Coast guests.

“I enjoy learning about plants, going into the garden and picking the peppers. I get to colour and listen to stories,” an ecstatic Zahlia added.

The Reading Road Trip initiative, a collaboration between Sandals Foundation and Island Routes Caribbean Adventures, provides an exceptional volunteer experience for travellers and locals. This programme allows participants to give back during their vacation by returning to the school to help local students enhance their reading and comprehension skills.