Set up as a charity by the local community in 1980, the majority of learners come from the North London area though the unusual nature of the scheme attracts people from all over the capital. The scheme is situated on a land-locked site behind Highgate High Street in North London zoned as Agricultural Land.

There are four strands to the training:

The Horticultural Training Scheme prepares people with learning difficulties/ disabilities for work, finds them employment and supports them in their new jobs;

Harington Gardeners is a supported employment initiative offering a stepping-stone for those who cannot go straight into work;

The Day Service provision offers horticulture of a therapeutic nature to adults with a learning disability or mental health support needs;

The Foundation Skills provision provides young people with the basic skills needed for employment, self-direction and personal development.

Every learner has an individual programme of activities to support their personal development and skill needs. The majority of learners are found a job, or further education, when they leave and the Scheme supports them and liaises with employers for as long as is needed.

Course Information

Free courses for 16-24 year olds who are resident in London, aged 16-18 or 19-24 and not eligible for New Deal.

The Harington Scheme offers three fully funded "Entry to Employment" training options for 16-24 year olds: Horticulture, Retail or Life Skills. These flexible full-time courses aim to prepare young people for employment or further education in their chosen field. All courses include qualifications, work experience, personal development and help with reading, writing and maths.

Courses for Adults aged over 24

The Harington Scheme offers flexible horticultural training and development activities for adults with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. The content and duration of the training is subject to individual planning and course fees apply (usually paid by social services).

School Links Programme

Part-time individually tailored horticultural training packages can be arranged for pupils in years 10/11/12 as an alternative to parts of their school curriculum. This is subject to approval and funding from the school or LEA.

Contact:

The Harington Scheme
55a Cholmeley Park
Highgate
London
N6 5EH
+44 (0)20 8341 3657
info@harington.org.uk
www.harington.org.uk