The project “Education and Therapy Gardens for Impaired Adult” aimed to develop an innovative educational model that uses hobby gardens as inclusive learning environments for adults with disabilities. The main objective was to support the physical, mental, and social development of impaired adults through practical, nature-based activities such as planting, watering, and caring for plants. To improve the competences of educators and staff working in adult education by providing them with new methods, tools, and strategies for using garden-based learning in non-formal and inclusive settings. The project also aimed to increase motivation and participation of adults with disabilities by offering more engaging, flexible, and personalised learning experiences outside the traditional classroom. The project sought to promote innovative learning spaces, strengthen transnational cooperation between partner organisations, and create a transferable educational model that can be used by other institutions in Europe. Ultimately, the project aimed to improve the quality of adult disability education and contribute to greater social inclusion.
We applied for this project because we identified a strong need for more inclusive, flexible, and motivating learning environments for adults with disabilities. Many impaired adults find it difficult to stay focused in traditional classrooms and need educational spaces where they can learn through action, interaction with nature, and practical experience. The project addressed the need for therapeutic and educational activities based on plants, soil, and gardening, which can support the physical, mental, and social development of adults with disabilities. It also responded to the need for more personalised learning approaches adapted to different disability types and support needs, including physical, sensory, mental, and communication impairments. The project aimed to strengthen the competences of educators and adult education institutions by providing them with innovative methods and tools for using hobby gardens as spaces for rehabilitation, learning, responsibility-building, and social inclusion. The project was designed to improve the quality of adult disability education, promote innovative outdoor learning spaces, and create sustainable results that can be transferred to other institutions in Europe.