From its café to co-working, community market garden to performance studios, this multi-purpose offering provides a huge range of opportunities for individuals and groups in the local area and beyond. With lively programmes offering vocational learning and adult education, alongside volunteering opportunities, skills development, health and wellbeing sessions, and art events Newquay Orchard has established itself not only as a community hub, but a visitor destination.
The Newquay Orchard team has enjoyed two busy years of growth, an expanding team of volunteers and employees, increased funding and a rise in community engagement to show for it. Throughout the programme, the team were able to gather a wider understanding of the creative industry, which opened up more cross-sector industry partnerships with universities, live arts and manufacturing organisations. This has resulted in a more impactful and confident programme brief for live events, including a youth programme empowering up to 15 young people to investigate space using art and sound with practitioner Justin Wiggan. The team have also welcomed a new Digital Projects programme with the University of Plymouth and a future growth plan for their ‘KREFT Space’ — a high-tech maker space split into three facilities that will be available to professional makers and the community.
“It was a really helpful experience as I am new to the creative sector and the programme helped me learn more about it and build connections.”
Jenny Hindson, Chief Operating Officer
With all eyes on the next business year, the team is busy building out a strong digital and events programme and exploring future income streams. The next round of Skills Programme funding is yet to be announced, and if it goes in Newquay Orchard’s favour, it will make a huge difference, in particular to their maker space. Plans are also in place to expand the provision for young people and families in the local area.