Gardening and Composting Educator Training Program

The Gardening and Composting Educator Training Program ('GCETP') provides an excellent introduction to organic gardening practices and urban composting, while providing an introductory examination of Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security.

GFE's Gardening and Composting Educator Training Program accepts and trains 40 to 50 Bay Area residents each year. The class meets every Saturday, and six Wednesdays, for three months. The GCETP class is offered twice each year, once in the Fall and once in the Spring.

GCETP StudentsWhile the class specifically focuses on Organic Gardening and Composting, an emphasis is placed on advocacy and community outreach. To successfully complete the program, students must conduct a 50-hour gardening-related community service project. These projects often include outreach, restoration of neglected community or school gardens, and training at public events, resulting in increased composting and gardening education activities in the community. Program graduates are prepared to effectively teach home composting and expected to co-teach one public compost workshop.

GCETP StudentsGCETP students help maintain the Garden for the Environment, as select community gardens and Composting Education Centers. To encourage home composting and to practice and refine their composting techniques, GCETP trainees receive a free compost bin to be used at their residence. The added practice increases their knowledge and expertise, making them even more valuable teachers and trainers in the community.

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