Simon Thomas beams with pride when he shows the handmade crafts and thriving plants loving cared for by himself and his colleagues.

Simon, 41, has learning difficulties, as do the other 90 “trainees” at Spadework.

But he has been thriving at the garden centre, on the edge of Offham and West Malling, for 23 years.

The site, in Teston Road, offers a peaceful but active environment for over 18s.

“The trainees start work at 9am and have two tea breaks and a lunch hour, just like other businesses,” explained general manager Camilla Medhurst. “Being in a working environment and interacting with people helps them build their confidence and gives them independence.”

Spadework has a garden nursery, cafe and a farm shop which are open to the public seven-days-a-week and run by the trainees with help from 22 staff and 14 volunteers.

The majority of stock is made or grown on-site, including a range of fruit, vegetables, chutneys and plants.

Trainee Vicky Loftus, 21, busy cooking a vegetable chilli for the lunchtime rush with freshly picked peppers, said: “I love being in the kitchen but I also like taking orders and serving customers.”

It’s clear the trainees have respect for the staff with several stopping Camilla to show her their latest achievement, including their contributions to the seasonal newsletter.

No one hesitates to greet you when you enter a room, and there’s plenty of chatting.

The adults are protected from prejudice but are not sheltered from social interaction.

Camilla said: “We treat the trainees as equals. We don’t talk about their disabilities and they all have the chance to take part in whatever they’re able to do.”

Most of the trainees are referred to Spadework by social services but referrals can also be made privately.

The organisation relies heavily on the Kent County Council’s department for funding. It has received grants from charitable trusts, such as the Big Lottery Fund, and generates a large chunk of profits from its monthly farmers’ market.

A class in the woodwork room were busy making decorations and garden planters for the upcoming Christmas fair on Saturday, December 7.

Employee Jean Cole, who began as a volunteer four years ago, said: “They deal face-to-face with customers on a daily basis and it really boosts their confidence and social skills. The change in the trainees from when they arrive is just amazing.

“Working here has really changed my perception of people with learning difficulties.”

For more information visit www.spadework.net.