Laverstoke Park Farm’s Education Centre – the Hampshire based biodynamic and organic estate – was the perfect venue for the first of Minerva’s Growing Sustainably workshops for small businesses, organisations and start-ups. Set up by former F1 racing driver Jody Scheckter and his wife Clare, the 2,500-acre farm follows nature as closely as possible, combining modern science with the most environmentally friendly and sustainable farming methods possible. In addition to producing biodynamically farmed fruit and vegetables, the farm has a wide range of livestock including a water buffalo herd – the largest in the UK – producing creamy milk used to create delicious award-winning mozzarella and ice cream.   The farm also produces award-winning black pudding, ale and lager and sparkling wine. Recycling green waste is a huge element of Laverstoke Park’s work having a seven-acre composting facility capable of handling over 70,000 tonnes of green waste a year. Delegates were lucky enough to have a tour led by Farm Manager James Cranham-Ryder who explained the farm’s work including the importance of their soil laboratory. Attendees were delighted to hear first-hand from Clare Scheckter about the farm’s inception, development and growth over the years, including the challenges it has faced and how, driven by her own passion for education and enjoyment of working with young people, the Education Centre was set up. It has welcomed over 20,000 visitors of all ages since its opening in 2002 including students from local schools and colleges, offering practical and theoretically based sessions. Minerva’s half day workshop – which focused on how organisations can plan to become more sustainable – attracted a variety of delegates from local charities, representatives from local councils and small independent businesses. Attendees reported that the content and opportunities to network with other delegates during the workshop proved invaluable. “It was helpful to see where other organisations are [in their sustainability planning] and to learn more about accreditations,” said Hannah Shaw of the Hawk Conservancy Trust based in Weyhill, near Andover. Gerald Fitzgerald of Peaberry Coffee who also attended the workshop said:  “Whilst I am already engaged in sustainable business practices …I have learned many further aspects I had not previously considered.” Jayne Sime, Business Growth Advisor for the Solent LEP thanked Minerva  …“…for a wonderfully informative event…I have gained a great deal of knowledge to assist me in supporting Solent businesses with their sustainability plans.” The Laverstoke event is one of a series of Minerva Growing Sustainably workshops in Dorset and Hampshire. For information on forthcoming events and to stay in touch, follow Minerva on twitter and Instagram or email info@minervacomms.net. For more information about Laverstoke Park Farm and the Education Centre visit https://www.laverstokepark.co.uk/