CHILDREN from Kaye’s First School in Clayton West have been busy in the garden – and they have a lot to show for it.

The school has been a pioneer in Kirklees in the development of its school grounds as a teaching environment.

Supported by the Denby Dale Parish Environment Trust (DDPET) the youngsters have transformed an overgrown and neglected orchard into a woodland trail with a wildlife pond, dipping platform, raised vegetable beds, and a willow dome.

A couple of sheds for alternative classroom accommodation completes the picture and a whole new teaching and learning environment has emerged and is now integrated into the school’s curriculum.

Before the school broke up for the summer holidays last week trustees invited people to see what could be done with a little bit of cash, some creative thinking and a bit of recycling.

The work in the garden has been supported over five years by a number grants from DDPET along with support in materials and expertise from the Denby Dale Countryside Project, the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, Yorkshire Water, Denby Dale Parish Council, Earnshaws Timber Products, long-suffering parents and dedicated staff.

The project was led by volunteer gardener Sheila Clark, who has slowly and quietly turned the neglected spot into a wildlife haven.

It is now being offered as an example for other schools to emulate.

DDPET was set up in 1997 and is an independent charity which aims to support and facilitate community environmental activity across the parish.

The trust raises and distributes funds for community led projects and works closely with the Denby Dale countryside project officer Andy Wickham to support the delivery of these projects.

Membership of the trust is open to all and currently there are three information meetings a year as well as three trustee meetings where grant applications are considered.

A number of schools in the area have had grants from the trust and are beginning to develop their valuable grounds.

CONTACT: Others are invited to apply and should call Andy Wickham on 01484 222960 for further information.