Posted on 15th May
Volunteer students at Newark Orchard School have undertaken a community improvement project led by Volunteer It Yourself (VIY).
Supported by Newark and Sherwood Council, through funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the project will provide practical skills for young people, aged 14 to 24.
Students have been working hard with VIY to create a sensory garden at the school site in Balderton. It will allow the school to combine learning with the outdoors as well as create a space that the students can enjoy.
VIY and the students transformed a previously under-utilised space, working hard to prepare the surface to install hardcore pathway around the perimeter and in the centre of the garden. The young people also built bespoke seating and child-friendly planters in the garden.
The project has enabled the volunteers to develop new skills and accreditations that could help them pursue a future career or interest, in addition to providing students at the school with space that they can take pride in.
VIY is an organisation that challenges young people to regenerate community spaces, while learning new vocational skills. Learners are mentored by professional tradespeople and projects are developed through engagement with the local community to identify improvements that will benefit local residents.
Matt Lamb, director of Regeneration and Growth at the council, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for a group of young people to learn vital skills, gain experience, and work towards qualifications.
“It’s crucial we continue championing and supporting the younger generations in finding a meaningful career they will enjoy. I’m looking forward to seeing the finished garden in the spring / early summer.
“Newark and Sherwood District Council is keen to maximise every opportunity to apply for central government funding that enhances our district for the benefit of our community. We remain committed to doing all we can to make our district an even better place to visit, live and work.”
Kate Fell, of Newark Orchard School, said: “This project has been ongoing for the last two years and through the support of VIY and Newark and Sherwood District Council, it has finally started to come together!
“It has been a privilege to watch our students work with the incredible VIY mentors to develop confidence and skills, and prove to themselves that they can make a real difference to our school community.
“Our new sensory garden will provide a crucial space to allow our students to learn beyond the classroom walls. We can’t wait to get it finished.”
