WOODLAND in Oakes has been transformed into a safe haven for children.
Pupils at Reinwood Junior School can now walk to school in a picturesque wooded area rather than along a busy road.
The walkway has been created using plastic and materials that would have otherwise been sent to landfill sites. It is one of a number of environmentally-friendly projects at the Burfitts Road school.
Year 3 teacher Alex Clark said: “We set up the Seasons Group two years ago and in the last six months everything has really taken off.
“The children themselves have decided what they want to do and have formed the group.
“They give ideas about ways we can help the environment; one of them was to install bird feeders.
“Our children really do enjoy getting involved.”
Eighteen months ago the school was able to lease Willow Woods at the bottom of the school site.
It meant they could develop it for the children to learn more about the environment.
Since then eco-friendly children have been helping to grow vegetables and plant herbs, which are used for their school dinners.
The former caretaker’s house on the school site is set to be transformed into an environment centre.
The walkway was opened earlier this week and has proved a popular choice for children walking to and from school.
Clr Tony Brice, a school governor and member of the Seasons Group, said: “The school are very enthusiastic about it.
“Originally the woodland was overgrown and really needed sorting.
“Now the school and the Mormons, who have helped with much of the clearing, have transformed the area.
“I have been able to secure some seats and waste bins from the area committee so residents, as well as the children, will be able to take advantage of it.”
Parents have donated gardening tools, plants and seeds to support the eco-project.
The school is now hoping to link up with other primary schools and get them involved.
