Harlow and District Scouts - Snow Forest
Snow Forest is a six‑month project to transform a derelict, uneven and overgrown area beside Snow Farm Scout HQ into a safe, inspiring outdoor learning garden and youth allotment. The space will be designed in a forest school style, giving young people frequent, structured opportunities to connect with nature, explore, and learn through hands‑on experience.
What will the Kao SEED Fund support?
The Kao SEED Fund will be used to create the physical foundations of the Snow Forest garden and ensure the space is safe, accessible and fit for regular use. The funding will cover essential works including digger hire to clear and level the ground as well as age‑appropriate tools for children and adults. A parachute canopy will offer shade and shelter so activities can continue in varied weather, extending use throughout the year. Finally, equipment such as a pallet breaker and safety gear will allow volunteers and older scouts to upcycle pallets into seating and planters.
Who is the project helping support?
The project directly supports Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers from Harlow and District Scouts by providing a dedicated, year‑round outdoor space for learning, adventure and practical skills development. Older scouts will play an active role in planning and building the space, gaining leadership, teamwork and practical construction experience as they help create the garden. The project also benefits a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) that already uses the building, giving young people who may face additional challenges access to a calm, structured environment where they can work towards qualifications and develop confidence. Local schools, families and community groups will be invited to use the space for forest‑school sessions, gardening activities and workshops, extending the impact beyond Scouting.
Impact of the project
Snow Forest will help children and young people develop teamwork, problem‑solving, resilience and environmental stewardship through regular, hands‑on outdoor experiences. Working on youth allotment plots will teach practical gardening skills, healthy eating habits and where food comes from, helping participants see the impact of their efforts as they grow, harvest and share produce.
Impact within Scouting will be tracked through badges linked to outdoor skills, gardening, environmental care and healthy living, providing an established framework to evidence learning and personal development.