Welcome back to the Level Best Monthly Roundup, where we share the exciting activities, achievements, and creative endeavours from the past month. March has been a vibrant and productive time for everyone at Level Best! Here’s what we’ve been up to:
Allotment Adventures 🌼
March brought sunny days, perfect for a busy morning at the allotment. Andrew trimmed back dead branches in the herb patch, Conner assisted Amy with composting, and Simon sowed beetroot in the poly tunnel. The highlight? Spotting a baby lizard! Nature never ceases to amaze us 🦎
Art Workshop with Barrie Strawson 🎨
We had the pleasure of welcoming artist Barrie Strawson to our Art Department. Barrie guided us through an expressive painting workshop, encouraging creativity and experimentation. Everyone got messy but produced incredible abstract pieces!
Seasonal Creations: Rhubarb Chutney & More 🍴
March marked the start of rhubarb season, and our Seasonal trainees crafted a hot and spicy rhubarb chutney—perfect with mature cheese! They also learned about kitchen safety through interactive worksheets. Later in the month, they whipped up a pear and ginger chunky chutney and created rosemary & garlic seasoning for Easter dishes. Truly a flavourful month 🥕
Till Adaptation Success 🛍️
Samuel has been working hard to become independent at using the till despite his visual impairment. With auditory prompts and a specially designed folder, Samuel is now managing transactions like a pro! Fantastic work, Samuel! 👏
Baking Extravaganza 🍰
Our kitchen buzzed with activity as trainees explored patisserie skills. Darryl’s Tarte aux fruits frais was a showstopper!
Sip & Stitch 🧵
The first Thursday of each month is dedicated to Sip & Stitch at Level Best. Our crafty trainees worked on textile art projects while enjoying tea in the Level Best Art Gallery. If you’re into knitting, crocheting, or embroidery, join us and just grab a cuppa from the café while you’re here! ☕️
Colchester Institute Visit 🎓
Trainees visited Colchester Institute to view artwork by Level 2 Art and Design students inspired by Level Best. Their project showcased creativity and talent, leaving us amazed. Feedback from our trainees: “This is joyful” – William; “Epic” – Sophie. 🎨
Wivenhoe Café Collaboration 🍞
Trainees Tom, Conner, and Simon visited Margo’s café and gallery in Wivenhoe and discussed selling Level Best jams and chutneys there. Margo loved hearing about how we grow our produce during allotment sessions too🌼
World Down Syndrome Day 🌈
On March 21, we celebrated World Down Syndrome Day by wearing brightly coloured mismatched socks. Such a fun way to raise awareness and show support! 👟
That wraps up March’s roundup! Stay tuned for more updates next month as we continue creating, growing, and inspiring together at Level Best 🌟
