Children at Clements Primary Academy in Haverhill are enjoying a fantastic new outdoor space, thanks to a £5,000 boost from our Community Investment Grant.
Working closely with the Clements Community Group, the school set out to transform its pond area into a space that’s not just for learning but for bringing people together and building a stronger connection with nature.
The excitement from the children is clear. They spoke passionately about what the space means to them and how much they enjoy spending time there. The area itself features a boardwalk, giving children the chance to fully immerse themselves in the environment. It almost doesn’t feel like being at school.
Alongside this, there are nature trails, a bee nesting area and a hibernaculum (a natural or artificial shelter that animals use to survive the winter in a state of dormancy),all helping to create a space that’s both engaging and calming. The design and work were done by Warren from Warren John Brace Garden Design. He worked with the school to understand what they wanted the space to become. He also installed signs in the area, providing further information for the children to read and learn more
“It’s so much better than it used to be,” one of the school councillors told us. “We really like coming out here.”
Another pupil, who has a real passion for wildlife, shared how much he enjoys exploring the pond and discovering what’s living in it, with frogspawn being a particular highlight
What makes this project even more special is that it started with the children themselves. The idea to improve the pond area was raised by the school councillors, and their input has clearly helped shape the finished space. It’s a great example of young people having a voice and being listened to.
Headteacher, Mrs Hogg, shared just how much the funding has meant to the school: “We are so grateful for the support, it’s already had a huge impact on our children and the wider school. The pond area is now a key part of school life. It’s being used as part of Forest School, giving children the chance to learn about the environment in a hands-on way. It’s also a calm, welcoming space where they can take time out, relax and enjoy being outdoors.”
Projects like this are all about creating opportunities and helping people, especially children, feel connected, build confidence and take pride in where they live. This new space is already making a real difference, and we hope it continues to do so for many years to come.
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