By community reporter
There was a real sense of celebration at Kirkstall Valley Farm this week as Kirkstall Valley Development Trust (KVDT) marked two significant milestones while also looking ahead to another.
The community organisation was delighted to receive a Highly Commended award at this year’s Child Friendly Leeds Awards, recognising its outstanding work with children, young people and families across Leeds.
Just a few days later, staff, volunteers, growers, members and supporters came together to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the farm’s thriving Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) scheme.
Together, the celebrations provided an opportunity to reflect on everything KVDT has achieved since it was established almost ten years ago. Since 2016, the organisation has grown from an ambitious vision into a thriving community organisation, connecting people, nature and heritage through projects that improve lives and strengthen communities across the Kirkstall Valley.
The Child Friendly Leeds Awards celebrate organisations making a real difference to the lives of children and young people. KVDT was recognised for creating welcoming, inclusive opportunities where children can play, explore nature, build confidence and develop new skills through outdoor experiences.
From forest school sessions and holiday clubs to family events, environmental projects and volunteering opportunities, thousands of children and young people have benefited from the organisation’s work.
KVDT Chair Roland Cross said the recognition belonged to everyone involved with the organisation.
He said: “This award reflects the passion and dedication of an amazing team of staff, volunteers, trustees and partners. Every day they create opportunities for children and families to experience nature, learn new skills and feel part of their community. We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition.”
Chief Executive Adele Rae attended the awards ceremony alongside Children and Families Manager Kirsty Ward and Deputy Manager Zuleika Hesseldine, proudly accepting the award on behalf of the whole KVDT team.
Adele said: “Everything we achieve is because people believe in what we’re trying to do. We know that being outdoors, connecting with nature and feeling part of a supportive community has a huge impact on children’s wellbeing.
“To receive a Highly Commended award from Child Friendly Leeds is something the whole KVDT family can celebrate. It’s made even more special as we also celebrate five years of our Community Supported Agriculture scheme. We’re incredibly proud of our growers and volunteers, who work tirelessly to produce fantastic-quality local vegetables while helping people reconnect with where their food comes from and the value of sustainable, community-led food growing.”
The celebrations continued at Kirkstall Valley Farm as members, volunteers, supporters and local residents gathered to mark five successful years of the CSA.
What began as an ambitious idea to produce fresh, locally grown food has grown into a flourishing enterprise that supplies seasonal vegetables, supports biodiversity, creates volunteering opportunities and demonstrates the power of community-led food production.
The birthday celebration was filled with laughter, conversation, and activities for all ages, with many reflecting on the transformation of the farm over the last five years.
Rhian Williams Head Grower said: “A massive thanks to everyone who supported this year’s party – whether planning, helping on the day, preparing food and bringing yourselves along.
“It’s always so good to see lots of different people enjoying whatever bit of the party they’ve come for – the sandpit, dance floor, musicians, stalls, bar or some birthday cake! The farm really shows us that we have more fun and are stronger when we all spend time together and the party is always a great example of that.”
Today, Kirkstall Valley Farm is about far more than growing vegetables. Alongside the CSA, it provides a welcoming space where people can volunteer, improve their wellbeing, learn new skills, connect with nature and become part of a supportive community.
The organisation’s impact extends well beyond the farm. Through its Community Hub and Food Pantry at St Stephen’s Church Hall, KVDT supports local families with affordable food, community activities, advice, volunteering opportunities and a welcoming place where people can connect, reducing isolation and helping residents through difficult times.
The Trust also paid tribute to its dedicated Structures Volunteer Team, whose skills, creativity and commitment have helped build much of the infrastructure that makes the farm such a special place. Their latest project, the WOW Barn, is creating a new community building at the heart of the farm, providing even more space for learning, activities, events and bringing people together.
These projects, alongside the dedication of KVDT’s staff and volunteers, demonstrate the organisation’s commitment to supporting people of all ages, from early years through to older residents, creating opportunities for everyone to thrive.
As KVDT looks ahead to celebrating its 10th anniversary this September, there is a strong sense of optimism for the future.
Reflecting on the week’s celebrations, Adele added: “This has been a really special week for everyone at KVDT. Receiving recognition from Child Friendly Leeds is something we’re incredibly proud of, and celebrating five years of our CSA made it even more meaningful.
“Whether it’s on the farm, at our Community Hub or through our Food Pantry, none of this would be possible without our incredible staff, volunteers, growers, members, trustees, partners and supporters. They are the heart of everything we do, and these milestones are a celebration of what we’ve achieved together.”
As the organisation prepares to mark its tenth birthday later this year, KVDT remains committed to its mission of connecting people, nature and heritage, creating opportunities that strengthen communities, improve wellbeing and inspire future generations.
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