Community Garden

Growing food for our community

Community Garden is an initiative focusing on food growing at Bournemouth University. It was established in January 2025 funded by grants *and donations and is delivered by Students' Union at Bournemouth University.

Our project aims to inspire and engage students, staff and the local community. The garden can be a used for a range of activities such as monthly supper club, open days, plant sales, workshops, team days and Sport BU kids camp.

Follow us @communitykitchensubu for Community Garden opportunities, news and more!

*Grants from BU Estates, Neighbourly, SU budget

Our mission

1. Supply our Community Kitchen with organic grown fruit and vegetables, without the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides.
2. Enhance the student experience on campus by offering unique volunteering opportunities.
3. Engage with the local community and create a sense of belonging.
4. Offer various workshops, events and wellness opportunities.

"Volunteering at the allotment has really helped my mental health. Working with the plants and being outdoors has brought me peace and happiness. Growing food for my community makes me feel part of something and has given me a sense of purpose. I'm so grateful for this experience."

- Anonymous, BU Student and SUBU Volunteer

Get involved

Our project wouldn't function without our amazing volunteers and generous donations. Whether you'd like to give your time or donate to us, we have a range of ways to get involved - and we'd love your support.

Volunteers in the garden can engage at any level based on their ability and availability. Drop in to our Community Garden between 3pm - 5pm on a Monday, or 12pm - 2pm on a Wednesday.

There are a wide range of tasks for all abilities, and we learn from each other, so no experience or skill is needed. Depending on the time of year, you could be...

• Sowing and planting
• Watering
• Weeding
• Harvesting
• Composting
• Fixing and building
• Doing manual work

Where possible we aim to thank our volunteers with fresh produce from the gardens.

If you're interested in helping, book your ticket! It's completely free to join in, but spaces are limited.

Where to find us

The Community Garden is located on Talbot Campus, just behind the Poole Gateway Building. Find us on Google Maps. Drop in between 3pm - 5pm on a Monday, or 12pm - 2pm on a Wednesday.

Four reasons to get involved with the Community Garden

1. Engaging with nature has been known to reduce anxieties and lower stress (cortisol) levels
2. Gain valuable skills and experience
3. Create opportunities for meaningful connection and friendships
4. Make a positive difference