castle kids patch

About Us

Castle Kids’ Patch CIC began with a seed of an idea: to create a welcoming, hands-on garden space where children could learn and thrive. In early 2025, a small group in Stoke-sub-Hamdon came together to transform an unused plot into a colourful, buzzing children’s garden filled with veggies, flowers and happy chatter.

Fuelled by community support and a shared passion for getting children in the garden, we officially registered as an independent Community Interest Company (CIC) in June 2025. While we work closely alongside Castle Primary School and are proud to support its children and families, Castle Kids’ Patch is a separate community-led organisation, created and run independently for the benefit of the wider community.

We grafted to grow our allotment space from an unloved plot into a beautiful and bountiful Patch. Since then, we’ve hosted seasonal gardening clubs, creative workshops, school visits and village events - all designed to connect children with the earth and their community.

At the Patch, children aged 4–11 get stuck into gardening, discover where food comes from and learn to care for their environment. We believe in growing more than just plants - we are growing confidence, calm and curiosity.

Meet the Team

Dusk Eastment – Co-Founder & Patch Co-Ordinator

Dusk started Castle Kids’ Patch out of a love for gardening with children and a desire to create a space where they could learn and grow outdoors. She runs the day-to-day sessions at the Patch, planning activities and helping kids get stuck into the soil. She is DBS checked, Paediatric First Aid Certified and is studying RHS Level 2 in Practical Horticulture.

Martin Eastment – Co-Founder & Director

With a lifetime of gardening experience and a true grower’s instinct, Martin has been instrumental in shaping the Patch. His practical knowledge, dedication and hours of hands-on work have turned ideas into raised beds and vibrant growing spaces. Martin’s wisdom is at the roots of everything we grow.

Anita & Chrissie – Directors & Dedicated Patch Champions

Anita and Chrissie have been an essential part of Castle Kids’ Patch from the very beginning. Whether it’s running our stalls with smiles and energy, turning up rain or shine for volunteer days or quietly supporting everything we do behind the scenes, they’ve truly helped shape the Patch into what it is today. Their commitment, kindness and belief in the project keep us going and growing.

Please see our safeguarding policy here