East Boldon Junior School reveals revamped garden thanks to AkzoNobel

East Boldon Junior school has today revealed their new garden, which is the result of a community project partnership with paints and coatings expert, AkzoNobel.

The school has unveiled a new greenhouse, raised beds, a recycling area, and a firepit with seating following a £7500 grant from the AkzoNobel Community Program, part of AkzoNobel Cares.

East Boldon Junior School had a vision to create an outdoor classroom where pupils could learn about the environment, including how to grow different food types and the alternative environments that they need to flourish. The project was led by a volunteer team from AkzoNobel Felling, school staff, parents and, of course, the children.

A competition was held at the school, so the children could have direct involvement in choosing what would be installed. The children all drew a picture of their ideal garden and ideas were picked from the designs. Ideas included bug hotels, areas for growing vegetables, seating areas, firepits, willow tunnels, wet areas, bird houses and old welly planters.

Louise Carr, a Specialist at AkzoNobel Felling, who coordinated the project, said: “It has been great fun working on this project for all involved, and the result is a long-lasting opportunity for the children to learn about the environment first hand. The garden will be a brilliant resource for years to come and it is another great example of what our Community Program can do.”

Kevin Chidley, Site Manager at AkzoNobel Felling, added: “We are committed to helping local communities, and showing the world AkzoNobel Cares, with donations of paint and volunteering time wherever possible to help uplift communities, change behaviours and make living, working and educational spaces more fun, inspiring and enjoyable. I’m proud of the team for what they’ve achieved, which really will make a difference at the school.”

Launched in 2005, the Community Program helps people in need, including children, refugees, people with disabilities or the elderly. Activity is focused on education, wellbeing, healthcare and sanitation, and reducing poverty. Projects use the hands-on support of local AkzoNobel employees, AkzoNobel products and leverages the vast expertise within the business.