Hillcrest students transform their school garden

Students and staff at Hillcrest special school in Cramlington have been working hard to improve their school grounds and transform them into a beautiful garden  to relax in and enjoy.

 

For the past year they have worked to clear and reclaim an area of overgrown land and have achieved a horticultural qualification in the process.

 

Under the close direction of John Wallace from Kirkley Hall and with thanks to funding from The Children’s Foundation, they’ve planted, painted, laid paving and even grown vegetables to use in cookery lessons.

 

Rachael Ashurst the teacher that led on this project said:

 

“ This has been a really fantastic project for our students who have  grown in confidence in their own abilities and developed a strong sense of teamwork.

 

“ Most importantly they can see the results for themselves each and every day and have  gained a real sense of satisfaction and achievement while creating a relaxing and stimulating environment for everyone at the school to enjoy.”

 

The garden was officially opened with an English garden party theme which was attended by county councillors.

 

Northumberland County Council civic head, Ian Hutchinson said:

 

“ The garden is a colourful, relaxing and peaceful environment for the students and their families to use. The students will be able to interact with the garden through sight, touch, sound and smell while others will be involved in the garden’s upkeep. It’s a fantastic achievement for all involved.”

Photo: Teacher Rachael Ashurst ( in red top) with some of the students who worked on the garden