@ThePark https://bowdenderra.co.uk/ Fri, 10 Apr 2026 14:07:09 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/logo1-100x100.png @ThePark https://bowdenderra.co.uk/ 32 32 @ThePark Easter Egg Run Fundraiser. https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2026/04/10/thepark-easter-egg-run-fundraiser/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2026/04/10/thepark-easter-egg-run-fundraiser/#respond Fri, 10 Apr 2026 14:07:09 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2991 The post @ThePark Easter Egg Run Fundraiser. appeared first on @ThePark.

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We had a wonderful Easter Sunday filled with fun, community spirit, and generosity. We were delighted to welcome the Widows Sons Kernow Grand Chapter for another fantastic Easter egg run. Everyone loved seeing the bikes as they arrived, having set off from Davidstow Airfield earlier in the morning and reaching us at around 2pm.

There was plenty to enjoy throughout the afternoon. We held a tombola; while the group organised a raffle, guests were treated to a delicious hog roast. We were also entertained by the wonderful band Zalek, who created a brilliant atmosphere for the day.

Thanks to everyone’s support, we raised over £900. With beautiful sunny weather adding to the occasion, it truly was a fantastic day enjoyed by all.

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Ancient Egypt @ThePark https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2026/02/24/ancient-egypt-thepark/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2026/02/24/ancient-egypt-thepark/#respond Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:47:41 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2726 The post Ancient Egypt @ThePark appeared first on @ThePark.

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REACH Explore Ancient Egypt at The Park 🐫✨

Our REACH group at @ThePark has been diving into the fascinating world of Ancient Egypt, and it’s been an exciting journey of discovery! The students have been learning all about the pyramids, Egyptian gods, and pharaohs, uncovering how this ancient civilisation lived, worshipped, and ruled.

One of the highlights of the topic has been the hands-on activities. The students have absolutely loved creating their own Egyptian dioramas and pyramids, using their imagination and creativity to bring history to life. From canopic jars, mummies and impressive pyramid structures. Their work has shown real thought and enthusiasm.

Throughout the sessions, the students asked lots of thoughtful questions and were fully involved in their learning. They took ownership of their projects, making choices about what they wanted to create and how they wanted their designs to look. It was fantastic to see such high levels of engagement, curiosity, and teamwork.

To finish the topic, we spent the day at The Cornwall Museum in Truro. We took part in a mummification workshop and enjoyed a guided tour with Joe from the museum, who was extremely knowledgeable and made the experience fun and engaging. We took part in the mummification, removing body parts, wrapping the bandages and adding amulets. The students were able to have a close look at 3000-year-old Egyptian artefacts. The students really enjoyed interacting, asking questions, and learning throughout the day.

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Christmas Party @ThePark 2025 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/12/15/christmas-party-thepark-2025/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/12/15/christmas-party-thepark-2025/#respond Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:57:24 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2585 The post Christmas Party @ThePark 2025 appeared first on @ThePark.

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Christmas Party @ThePark 2025 🎄

We had a truly wonderful time celebrating Christmas @ThePark on Saturday the 13th of December. The atmosphere was full of joy, laughter, and festive spirit, bringing together our service users, staff, family and friends for a memorable celebration.

A huge thank you to the band Zalick for their fantastic mix of Christmas songs and popular music, which had everyone singing along and enjoying the moment. Thank you, Kate, for captivating us with your beautiful acoustic music and allowing us to join in with your instruments.

We would also like to thank the café team for providing a delicious and beautifully prepared Christmas buffet that was enjoyed by all.

Thank you to our managers and the wider team for organising such a wonderful party. It was a brilliant day, and we are grateful to everyone who helped make it so special.

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Freddie’s Fibre Friends @ThePark https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/11/21/freddies-fibre-friends-thepark/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/11/21/freddies-fibre-friends-thepark/#respond Fri, 21 Nov 2025 16:38:49 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2519 The post Freddie’s Fibre Friends @ThePark appeared first on @ThePark.

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Today we had the pleasure of welcoming Julia from Freddie’s Fibre Friends to lead a Christmas-themed felt workshop. The session brought together creativity, calm, and festive cheer, the perfect way to embrace the season.

Julia’s journey with fibre crafts began more than four years ago, when she was working as a support worker providing one-to-one care. She quickly discovered the incredible benefits that felt crafts can bring: relaxation, sensory stimulation, and a joyful outlet for self-expression.

Since then, she has shared her workshops with care homes and schools, whilst also running sessions from her own home, where alpacas and sheep provide the very fibres that inspire her work.

Our group gathered to explore soft textures and calming techniques, creating festive pieces that sparked imagination and connection. With fibres in hand, we slowed down, enjoyed the process, and celebrated the simple joy of making together.

If you would like more information please visit Julia’s FacebookPage (1) Facebook

Freddie's Fibre Friends, Bowden Derra, Group activity with residents and staff layering felt sheets, promoting creativity and inclusion, @ThePark,

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@ThePark Fireworks Event 2025 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/11/11/thepark-fireworks-event-2025/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/11/11/thepark-fireworks-event-2025/#respond Tue, 11 Nov 2025 15:59:24 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2486 The post @ThePark Fireworks Event 2025 appeared first on @ThePark.

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We had a great Bonfire Night on Wednesday the 5th November and raised money towards our R.E.A.C.H. Activity Sessions.

As part of the R.E.A.C.H. Sessions @ThePark, Penelope chose to take photos of our Bonfire Night and write a piece about it.
I love Bonfire Night because I like the colours of the fireworks and I like the warmth of the bonfire and the colours of the bonfire.
It is nice to see friends and other people from outside of BDP, and the café serves nice food.

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Intensive Interaction, Total Communication and Active Support Conference. https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/27/conference/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/27/conference/#respond Mon, 27 Oct 2025 14:04:19 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2350 The post Intensive Interaction, Total Communication and Active Support Conference. appeared first on @ThePark.

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On Friday, 17th October 2025, @ThePark, we hosted an event in collaboration with the local Learning Disabilities Directorate from Cornwall Foundation NHS Trust: our Intensive Interaction, Total Communication, and Active Support Conference.
Empowerment in Action: A Transformative Day @ThePark.

This wasn’t just a professional gathering; it was the culmination of nearly two years of dedicated work, learning, and partnership. Together with the individuals we support and our staff, we’ve been exploring and embedding inclusive techniques that empower people to do as much as possible for themselves.

The conference was a celebration of that journey, and a showcase of how these approaches have transformed everyday life @ThePark. The event was held in our welcoming Central Park Hub. The atmosphere was warm, vibrant, and filled with connection.

Bowden Derra Park, Cornwall Care, Learning Disabilities, Care Home Cornwall,
Bowden Derra Park, Cornwall Care, Learning Disabilities, Care Home Cornwall,

The event was held in our welcoming Central Park Hub. The atmosphere was warm, vibrant, and filled with connection.

One of the most powerful sessions invited participants to reflect on the experience of being fed, especially when you’re unsure whether the food is hot, cold, soft, or hard. This food tasting activity sparked deep conversations about sensory awareness, dignity, and the importance of communication in care.

Over the past two years, we’ve been filming our progress, documenting real moments, voices, and growth. These videos were shared during the conference, and we will continue to be used as training resources for the individuals we support and our staff, helping reinforce learning in a completely person-centred approach.

For those looking to explore or develop their own active support skills, we recommend visiting Skills for Active Support, (HOME | Skills For Active Support) a fantastic resource for practical, person-centred approaches.

We were honoured to welcome staff from other care homes, who joined us in making the day so special. Their presence and participation added so much to the richness of the experience. The event featured a beautiful buffet prepared by the Central Park Café, with every need thoughtfully catered for.

Bowden Derra Park, Cornwall Care, Learning Disabilities, Care Home Cornwall,
Bowden Derra Park, Cornwall Care, Learning Disabilities, Care Home Cornwall,

A heartfelt thank you to Sharon, Julia, and Jerome from the NHS for their continued support. Appreciation also to Penny, Lisa, Aaron, and the management team @ThePark for their creativity, care, and commitment in bringing this event to life.

This conference was a celebration of what’s possible when we collaborate. With compassion, creativity, and commitment. Here’s to continued growth, deeper connection, and a future where every individual feels empowered to thrive.

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@ThePark-R.E.A.C.H- Exploring Photography https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/24/thepark-r-e-a-c-h-exploring-photography/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/24/thepark-r-e-a-c-h-exploring-photography/#respond Fri, 24 Oct 2025 11:03:19 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2316 The post @ThePark-R.E.A.C.H- Exploring Photography appeared first on @ThePark.

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📷 Exploring Photography – R.E.A.C.H Wednesday Group

As part of our R.E.A.C.H activity programme, Wednesday’s group have been developing their photography skills. Recently, we visited the beautiful Crowdy Reservoir, where they had the opportunity to experiment with digital cameras, supported by staff throughout the experience. They captured the local wildlife, the Reservoir and the breath-taking Landscape.

Upon returning, the group reviewed their photographs on the computer. In future sessions, they will select their favourite images, learn basic editing skills and gain insight into composition technique. Then save their work in personal digital portfolios so they can print and share them.

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@ThePark Sing and Sign Choir at Beaumont Court https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/23/thepark-sing-and-sign-choir-at-beaumont-court/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/23/thepark-sing-and-sign-choir-at-beaumont-court/#respond Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:14:03 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2303 The post @ThePark Sing and Sign Choir at Beaumont Court appeared first on @ThePark.

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The @ThePark Choir returned to Beaumont court on Wednesday the 22nd of October, to perform more sing and sign songs. We had a great time and enjoyed the cake after. We very much hope their residents enjoyed it too!

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Carnival week @ThePark https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/16/carnival-week-thepark/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/16/carnival-week-thepark/#respond Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:30:08 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2271 The post Carnival week @ThePark appeared first on @ThePark.

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From Monday 15th to Friday 19th September, we celebrated our third Carnival event @ThePark. What a week it was. Each year, we choose a different theme, and this time we brought the magic of the circus to life.
Every day featured a unique activity designed to delight, engage, and include everyone in our community. We kicked things off on Monday with a Circus-themed dance session led by Kerry, filled with rhythm, laughter, and plenty of clowning around.

 

Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance.

 

 

On Tuesday, we welcomed Gemma and the fantastic team from Rhythm Sticks for a musical extravaganza. The room came alive with the beat of drums and the joyful sounds of a wide array of instruments they brought along. Everyone had a chance to join in, explore rhythms, and feel the music together. It was loud, lively, and absolutely brilliant.

 

 

Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance. Rhythm Sticks,
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance.

 

Wednesday brought the thrill of the big top with a hands-on Circus Skills session. From plate spinning to hula hooping, everyone had a chance to try something new and show off their talents. The room was buzzing with excitement and a few impressive balancing acts, pure circus magic. On Thursday, we had a Sing and Sign Choir practice followed by bingo in our Café.

 

Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall, Circus Skills.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall, Circus Skills.

 

 

Friday marked the highlight of our week, the Carnival Procession around the gardens. Everyone joined in with colourful costumes, music, and plenty of cheer as we paraded around the gardens in true carnival style. The atmosphere was great, filled with laughter, clapping, and proud smiles.
To wrap up the celebrations, we held a judging ceremony where different groups were recognised for their creativity, spirit, and participation. Certificates were awarded.

 

 

Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall, Circus Skills.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall, Circus Skills.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall, Circus Skills.

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James and Robin’s Gardening Journey https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/08/14/james-and-robins-gardening-journey/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/08/14/james-and-robins-gardening-journey/#respond Thu, 14 Aug 2025 14:48:28 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2100 The post James and Robin’s Gardening Journey appeared first on @ThePark.

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Robin began working at The Park nearly two years ago as a support worker, not long after she started supporting James with his course at Duchy College. James was taking part in various activities, including singing and signing, small animal care and gardening. Of the latter two activities, James said he enjoyed gardening the most, especially the physical aspects like potting plants, raking soil, and sweeping up leaves. Inspired by James’s enthusiasm, Robin came up with the idea for them to create four flower beds to attract butterflies and bees @ThePark. She chose locations that would be most visible to both residents and visitors, making the project a shared experience for everyone. Robin shared her idea with the management team, who fully supported the initiative.

Robin grew up gardening with her parents; her mother had a passion for flowers, while her father focused on vegetables. Wanting to pass on this knowledge, she used the opportunity to chat with James about how everything in nature is interconnected, from seeds to bees and butterflies. That built on the things James had learned from Duchy College. Together, Robin and James prepared the plots, each around 3m x 1m in size. They raked the soil to create a suitable seedbed. Robin brought in a variety of seeds that had been a Secret Santa gift from her colleagues, ones she hadn’t found space for at home. James scattered the seeds across the prepared plots, and at first, they used milk bottles filled with water to keep the soil moist. However, they quickly realised this wasn’t practical and decided to get watering cans.

Throughout the process, Robin talked to James about the environmental benefits of their gardening efforts. They discussed how bees collect nectar to make honey, and which flowers are known to attract bees and butterflies. James shared that he likes honey. Robin noted that whenever gardening is offered, James is always eager and enthusiastic to get involved.

Robin expressed how much she enjoys working at @ThePark, especially when she can support individuals through activities which she’s also passionate about. For her, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the joy it brings to the people who live at and visit @ThePark, and the environmental impact.

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