Our Easter Eggcitement was a cracking success! For two weeks, we welcomed families from near and far to the Aldingbourne Country Centre for a basket full of springtime fun.

There was something for everyone! From the popular BounceAbout with bouncy castles of all shapes and a visit from Toms Talking Reptiles to the soaring Birds of Prey Take Flight, we welcomed two NEW events to our stacked schedule - Springtopia (an augmented reality experience) and Wildflower Bombing!

We made a splash with our Foam Parteeee, and of course, no Easter would be complete without an Easter egg hunt. However, this year's hunt came with a twist, as we witnessed the unexpected arrival of large Knucker Dragon eggs in our Woodland Walk! Knucker Dragons are legendary creatures that live in bodies of water, historically known to the Sussex area. If, like us, you're wondering, will these eggs hatch? We'll have to wait and see!

Natasha Berwick shared her wonderful experience: "We had the best day, my eldest is autistic, and I'm always looking for inclusive places to take him and not feel out of place or judged. Aldingbourne was just perfect for us; it was inclusive, had adorable animals that my children loved cuddling and wonderful little play areas where I could sit and watch them play. I honestly can't wait to go back!"

At Aldingbourne, nothing gives us more joy than seeing families and friends come together and enjoy each other's company on a 'Great Day Out'. Thanks to everyone who visited us and made each day so special. We also want to thank our incredible teams at ACC, whose hard work and dedication ensured that these holidays were not only fun and exciting but also safe and memorable. 

Next stop: May Half Term! 

​Written by Lizzie Williams

Aldingbourne Country Centre recently partnered with Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital to host a bug hotel-building workshop. Alex, an education officer from Brent Lodge, led the activity, showing the people we support how to construct bug hotels using many different natural materials, which are plentiful here at the Country Centre grounds. 

The clients split into two teams to design and build their bug hotels in our woodland walk and on the farm. Their creativity and imagination shone through as one group jokingly said they were creating a more budget-friendly hotel. The other group said theirs was a more high-end, luxurious establishment. The discussion about the needs of different bugs and small animals was fascinating, with each group providing different materials for different types of insects to live in. There was a home for every bug! 

Alex expressed her pleasure on the day, saying, "I'm delighted to help the Trust build their bug hotels for their woodland and farm areas. As well as pollinating our flowers and benefitting our flora, insects are a vital food source for our local wildlife, which is why bug hotels are so important for conservation. Many creatures benefit from a thriving insect population, from hedgehogs to badgers and birds to shrews. The more insects we have, the more wildlife we'll have!"

The project's success was evident from the enthusiasm of the people we support, who had a great time. Alex looks forward to inviting members of the Trust to the hospital to see how they help wildlife in need and explore potential collaborations for the future. 

The Aldingbourne Trust provides opportunities for adults with learning disabilities or autism to live meaningful and fulfilled lives and to contribute positively to their communities. We take pride in working collaboratively with all key local and national organisations, like Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital, to improve opportunities and care services for adults with learning disabilities or autism. 

To learn more about what we do at the Trust, please visit our website www.aldingbournetrust.org

​Written by Lizzie Williams