Our Weekend Farm Academy

In 2023 Social Circles we are launching our new weekend farm academy in partnership with Gurteen Agricultural College.  Up to 15 places will be available for adults to enjoy a weekend away from home.  This is a fantastic opportunity to learn some new skills, meet new people and have fun!

All the support workers on the weekend are Garda Vetted and experienced working in social care and/or education.  Our team includes a Psychologist, Social Care Professionals, an Exercise and Fitness Instructor and a Music Teacher as well as lecturers from the farming college.  We will have exclusive use of a house - where each participant will have their own bedroom with handwashing facilities and use of a shared bathroom.  

Our MINIMUM staff ratio for all activities is 3 participants to 1 staff member - but we adapt that based on the needs of the group.  At night time there will be a 2 staff members awake at all times.

In advance of the weekend, we meet with every participant (and their family or support worker if needed) via Zoom to get an understanding of your goals for the weekend, agree your Lifeskills Challenge and find out what support you will need to get the most out of the weekend away.

Our academy will start on Friday at 3pm and on arrival everyone settles into their accommodation and meets the other academy participants.  We agree the ground rules over some afternoon tea and then meet the Principal of the Agricultural College to hear a very important lecture on farm safety.  This is followed by 'Come Dine With Me!' where some of the group will treat everyone else to a beautiful meal.  Later that evening we'll have a country music singalong - and for those who might like a quieter evening, there is an option to watch a movie.

On Saturday morning, we start with a hearty breakfast and attend our first practical session on the farm delivered by the lecturers at the college.  This is followed by 5 a side soccer / badminton / zumba depending on what people enjoy.  We then head for a picnic lunch and after that attend the second of the practical farm sessions.  Then we do some relaxation and mindfulness and start to prepare for the evening BBQ.  This is followed by a disco and for those who don't fancy that, there are other options including a movie, or board games.

After a leisurely Sunday morning breakfast, we complete the portfolios for our Lifeskills Challenge, spend time on the tractor simulator and have lunch together.  At 2pm we commence our award ceremony and all head home at 3pm - hopefully exhausted and looking forward to the next time!

Our farm weekends are alcohol and smoke/vape free.  They are suitable for people who are able to take any medications independently and use the stairs safely. 

The group may choose to keep in touch after the weekend and engage in further learning.  We can facilitate that via Zoom.

Our first weekend Academy will take place 27th - 29th October - bookings are now open!  Email info@social-circles.eu