Heligan Seed Pod

The Lost Gardens of Heligan are delighted to announce a successful funding application to create visionary education centre and programme at heart of its 200-acre historic estate and gardens.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan has secured a £300,000 grant from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund to create an innovative education centre, the Heligan Learning Seed Pod, at our 200-acre estate. This project will refurbish unused buildings to establish a new Education, Skills, and Learning hub aimed at delivering diverse programmes for the local community and visitors.

The Seed Pod will serve as a multi-purpose educational facility, offering a range of programmes focused on health and wellbeing in nature, horticulture, leadership, spirituality, sustainability, crafts, and arts. It will also develop educational opportunities for local schoolchildren and build capacity for volunteering in areas such as farming, sustainability, cooking, wildlife conservation, and horticulture. The project will further support local charities, including Heligan’s Scout and Cubs groups, by providing a dedicated base for their activities.

This initiative aligns with our commitment to promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. As a BCorp candidate, Heligan prioritizes people and the planet over profits, striving to create a positive impact through education and community engagement. The Seed Pod project builds on previous successful pilots conducted during the pandemic, expanding Heligan’s reach and influence in promoting sustainable living and conservation.

Heligan Seed Pod

  1. Group talk Alasdair in the jungle

    Growing four permanent team roles

    In addition to educational programmes, the project will generate year-round employment opportunities by creating four permanent roles within the Heligan Learning team. It will also support local craftsmen through the refurbishment process, using environmentally friendly materials and green energy solutions.

  2. Heligan Highland Cow Face view

    Building a regenerative community

    A key aspect of the project is its role in advancing Heligan’s regenerative farming practices and biodiversity initiatives. The new facilities will enable Heligan to host educational events, workshops, and wildlife observation activities, fostering community involvement in conservation efforts. The addition of a modern infrastructure will enhance Heligan’s ability to manage and share its extensive wildlife and farming research with a wider audience.

  3. Red Admiral Butterfly Feeding On Pink Flower Green Background

    Investing in our community

    The Heligan Learning Seed Pod represents a significant investment in the community, providing a dedicated space for learning, creativity, and collaboration. It aims to cultivate a deeper understanding of sustainable practices and inspire future generations to engage in environmental conservation and stewardship.

This project is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Cornwall Council has been chosen by Government as a Lead Authority for the fund and is responsible for monitoring the progress of projects funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Images credit Mei Loci and Studio Arc.