Our biggest apple harvest yet

A bumper apple crop from National Star’s heritage orchard at Ullenwood, Cheltenham has helped students to pick up new skills whilst making tasty fruit juice.  

Students collected over one thousand kilos of apples before using the fruit to prepare their own apple juice which is now available to purchase in StarBistro, our social enterprise café at Ullenwood.  

Students working towards their Duke of Edinburgh’s award took on the challenge of making the apple juice. Visiting a local cider mill, Bushel and Peck, based in Hazelton, Gloucestershire, the students learnt about the entire process.  

They turned apples into juice. Starting with chopping the apples, they focussed on understanding the new machinery, following safety procedures, and removing any rotten apples. They then wrapped the apple cuttings in a cloth creating an apple cheese, watching and repeating the process. Allowing each other to take turns, they showcased teamwork and communication skills. This continued as they divided further tasks such as turning on the machinery, bottling, and labelling.  

One of the students, Billy, who lives with cerebral palsy, beamed with excitement as he took part. He showcased his ability to focus and complete a task promptly.  

Another student, George, shared: ‘It was interesting to see what happened to the apples we picked. I enjoyed the pressing of the juice and then using the bottler.’  

Working in collaboration with local companies offers valuable opportunities for young adults with disabilities to experience real working environments. This allows them to develop their knowledge, confidence and communication skills, whilst working alongside peers.  

Thank you Bushel and Peck for supporting our students and the charity on this venture. 

Pop into StarBistro to grab a bottle of freshly made apple juice, now available from the 2025 harvest.