Children have designed and helped create a sensory garden for their school.
Pupils, staff and special guests gathered at Copmanthorpe Primary School for the garden’s grand opening last week.
The idea came from children elected to the school council.
In the middle of the school site there was an underused space that needed some inspiration.
The school council came up with a sensory garden for all the children to use to relax and enjoy throughout the school day.
They organised a competition for pupils to design their ideal sensory garden and tried to incorporate ideas that will meet all the senses – sound, touch, taste, smell and sight.
Once the winning designs were chosen, the hard work started to create the welcoming space, which was transformed by the site manager Mr Elsworth.
This was all made possible by the funding received from Northern Rail, secured by one of their parents Janine Paige. And the Friends of Copmanthorpe also secured funds from Copmanthorpe Parish Council and the Ward Council.
The garden is already in use. Children love relaxing there and staff have been enjoying having such a beautiful place to enjoy their lunch breaks.
Head teacher Jenny Rogers said: “It has been a great project for the children to get involved with and they have loved seeing their ideas come to life.”
Chloe in Year 6 said: “Every child and adult in school painted a stone with an inspirational image.”
“They are designed to make you smile when you see them,” added Rory in Year 3.
Eli, a Year 6 pupil, said: “We chose a variety of plants, including some scented ones such as lavender, honey suckle and mint.”
“There is even a swing!” added Minerva in Year 3.