Our purpose

A graphic of the Go Flourish purpose

In today’s world, children are spending less time outdoors, leading to what experts now call Nature Deficiency Disorder. This disconnect from the natural world is having a profound impact on their development.

By immersing children in the beauty of nature through hands-on gardening and outdoor learning, we’re helping them develop lifelong skills, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the environment —lessons that will benefit them for years to come.

Our call for nature in every classroom

Unfortunately, the mental health of children is in decline

The statistics speak for themselves. Rates of depression, anxiety, and ADHD in children are rising, and one of the key factors is their increasing disconnection from nature.

More and more children are struggling with essential life skills like self-regulation, resilience, concentration and initiative.

They are less engaged, less excited, less present in the classroom.

Compounding this issue are modern challenges like social media, reduced face-to-face interaction, limited physical activity, and excessive screen time—all of which contribute to the growing problem.

A pupil in the Go Flourish scheme with their hand up in class

There is a growing strain on resources

With school budgets already stretched thin, the increasing need for additional support in addressing mental health issues places further strain on teachers and resources. The long-term impact of this trend is undeniable: lives unfulfilled and potential unrealised.

We must take action—and we must do it now.

The Go Flourish and North Kessock primary school team discussing plans
The Go Flourish education bird graphic

A new approach to education

Together, we can nurture healthier minds, stronger communities, and brighter futures

At Go Flourish, we believe that school gardens offer a powerful, nature-based answer to these challenges.

By creating vibrant, hands-on learning environments, we help children reconnect with nature while learning essential life skills.

Our gardens provide space for children to build resilience, focus, and creativity—giving them the tools to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

‘We’ve now got children arriving to school on time, excited to learn. It’s magical.’

Carolyn Brown | Acting Head St Joseph’s RC Primary School Inverness

The Stats

‘Education systems should introduce Nature studies from the earliest stages of our lives, and revisit them in the years we spend in secondary and tertiary education.’

Watch our video to see the magic of what we do at Go Flourish

‘I like meeting new people and learning from them. I have learned that I should never give up and keep trying, even when I am trying to manage a heavy wheelbarrow.

I have a feeling of happiness.
I like being outdoors.’

Primary 7 Pupil

Go Flourish school gardens change children’s lives

Children breaking ground at Go Flourish garden, North Kessock Primary school

We are transforming education by weaving mental well-being, practical learning, and future readiness into the school day through outdoor learning.

Our gardens go beyond adding beauty—they’re interactive learning spaces led by dedicated teachers, bringing every subject to life through hands-on, real-world experiences. By fostering a connection to nature, Go Flourish gardens support mental health, spark curiosity about life, and cultivate the wisdom and resilience children will need to thrive in a challenging world.

Did you know?

Touching trees makes us feel calmer (the woodier, the knottier, the better!), and the scent of roses helps people drive more calmly and safely.

The Go Flourish changing education bird

Be part of the change and help us nurture the future generation

With your support, we can bring the life-changing benefits of outdoor learning and gardening to even more children.