The Independent

Shovelling muck and baking scones: The inner city farm helping vulnerable students stay in school

Source: Oasis Farm Waterloo

On a patch of disused land outside St Thomas’ Hospital, hidden between railway tracks and council blocks, lies a city farm that is home to goats, lambs and chickens.

Oasis Farm Waterloo, near Lambeth, is London’s most central grazing space, and a stone’s throw away from the Houses of Parliament. The charity that owns the farm inherited the previously derelict wasteland from the Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity, after the hospital realised it couldn’t build on the ground as it was infested with Japanese knotweed. 

The programme, in partnership with Jamie’s Farm, aims to provide educational and therapeutic care for the around the capital, tackling challenging behaviour and improving their self-esteem.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from The Independent

The Independent4 min read
On D-Day, 19-year-old Medic Charles Shay Was Ready To Give His Life, And Save As Many As He Could
On D-Day, Charles Shay was a 19-year-old U.S. Army medic who was ready to give his life — and save as many as he could. Now 99, he’s spreading a message of peace with tireless dedication as he’s about to take part in the 80th anniversary commemoratio
The Independent2 min read
What The Papers Say – May 6
The state of politics takes the lead this bank holiday, with most newspapers splashing on last week’s elections and the upcoming general election. The Daily Express says tax cuts are the only thing it believes can save the Tories before the general e
The Independent2 min read
Australia’s Qantas Airlines Agrees To £63m Payout Over ‘Ghost Flights’
Qantas Airways has agreed to pay a penalty of A$100m (£52.7m) to settle a fiery legal battle with the Australian competition watchdog for selling thousands of tickets for cancelled flights. The country’s largest airline will also pay around A$20m (£1

Related Books & Audiobooks