The Kings Foundation Ticket Portal

Our Horticulture and Sustainable Food Systems programme looks at the range of processes that are involved in growing food, and the many journeys taken to get to our plate. We provide opportunities for young people aged five to 18 to engage in the world of growing food in our organic garden and on the wider Dumfries House Estate.

Our school education workshops support the delivery of The Curriculum For Excellence, and many of our activities are based outdoors on our 2,000 acre estate, making use of our natural spaces to inspire learning. The King’s Foundation works in harmony with the natural world, and as such our workshops also touch upon the UN Sustainable Development goals and support learning for sustainability. Please see below for all workshop details.

Perfect Pollinators and Wildlife Warriors – All Primary Stages – Full Day Workshop - 10am until 2pm

Working with the seasons, until late September, your group can book our Perfect Pollinators workshop. Discover why tiny creatures make a big difference in our education garden. In this full-day workshop, pupils will explore the world of pollinators, learn how to survey for helpful insects, lend a hand in our vegetable garden, and create something to support wildlife at home or school. A fun, hands-on way to understand how plants grow and how living things work together. From October to December, pupils will Become a Wildlife Warrior! Pupils will explore our garden ecosystem, discover how plants and animals are connected, and help create space for wildlife on the estate. They’ll also make something to take back to school and support nature in their own community.

Super Soil - Late Primary Stage – Full Day Workshop - 10am until 2pm

In this hands-on workshop, pupils will dig into the fascinating world beneath our feet. They’ll carry out worm surveys, examine soil-dwelling creatures under the microscope, and discover how healthy soil is essential for healthy people and plants.

The Seasonal Garden – Late Primary Stage - Full Day Workshop - 10am until 2pm

Pupils will learn how to grow, harvest and cook with seasonal produce, explore how the time of year shapes garden tasks, and discuss food miles and the importance of making sustainable choices.

Earth Matters  – All Secondary Stage – Full Day Workshop - 10am until 3pm

Through a series of practical activities, pupils will explore the vital role of soil, water, and biodiversity. They’ll discover how these natural resources support all life on Earth and why it’s so important to protect them.

Sustainable Sourcing - All Secondary Stage - Full Day Workshop - 10am until 3pm

In this workshop, pupils will investigate where our food and materials come from, examine the impact of our everyday choices, and learn how to make more responsible decisions to help protect both people and the planet.

If you require any further information on our Horticulture and Sustainable Food Systems workshops before booking, please contact us at dh.education@kings-foundation.org

10th July 2025

10am until 12pm

Suitable for adults aged 18+

Cost £15 per person

Transform your kitchen and garden waste into gardening gold in this practical summer workshop for adults (18+). You’ll learn how to create rich, healthy compost and make natural liquid fertilisers using simple, everyday ingredients. With hands-on activities and expert guidance, we’ll break down the science of successful composting, explore the ideal balance of green and brown materials, and show you how to boost your soil without resorting to chemicals. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just getting started, this session will give you the tools and confidence to reduce waste and nourish your garden naturally.

17th July 2025

10am until 12pm

Suitable for: Chlidren aged 5-12 years 

Cost: £15 per child

Step into the garden and discover the tiny creatures that help it grow! This fun, interactive session introduces children to the wild world of pollinators, worms, and garden bugs. Through games, stories, and hands-on activities, young nature-lovers will learn how to create habitats, plant pollinator-friendly flowers, and become true friends to garden wildlife.

31st July 2025

10am until 12.30pm

Suitable for: Parent and Child (aged 8+)

Cost: £18

From the garden to the kitchen! In this delightful parent-and-child workshop, families will get hands-on in the garden harvesting fresh seasonal produce before heading indoors to bake simple, delicious scones using what they’ve picked. Along the way, we’ll explore where our food comes from, how it grows, and why fresh, local ingredients make all the difference. A wholesome day out to dig, learn, and taste together

12th - 15th August 2025

10am until 12pm each day

Suitable for: Adults aged 18+

Cost: £60

Ready to start your homegrown journey? This four-day introductory workshop is perfect for adults who want to learn the basics of growing their own food; no garden required. From sowing seeds and understanding soil to container growing, seasonal care, and harvesting tips, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the essentials. Whether you have a windowsill, balcony, or back garden, this hands-on workshop will give you the confidence and skills to grow fresh, delicious produce at home.