STUDENTS from a Wokingham primary school worked together to create a new eco-sensory garden.
The funding for the project at Keep Hatch Primary School came from South East Water’s Community Chest Fund. It was one of 10 schemes chosen by the fresh water supplier’s judging panel, and they each received £2,000.
Year 6 pupils designed the garden, working with parents and staff at weekends and after school. It includes bird baths, insect-friendly flowers in new planters and water butts.
Claire Appleby, the school headteacher said: “The eco team really drove this. They came up with the ideas and it was very pupil-led.
“These children have put in so much effort. I remember when they first came to me and asked about this proposal to do this big project. They have done such a marvellous job, with the help of many people.
“Of course, there was the financial aspect of it, and we were really lucky to have the money from South East Water’s Community Chest Fund and our Parents’ Association also gave us a donation as well.”
There were other initiatives that helped bring the project to life.
“We have had cake sales and plant sales as well to help us raise money,” Mrs Appleby continued.
“What an amazing space we have. This has been a highly successful outcome and this is now their legacy that will live on from these Year 6 children as we go through the years.
“Our next year eco ambassadors will have to keep it going to this standard.”
Earlier in July, Mrs Appleby cut the ribbon to declare the garden open at a ceremony attended by parents, staff and pupils. Afterwards there was cake.
For more details, or to view the full list of this year’s winners, log on to: www.southeastwater.co.uk/communitychest
