East Suffolk Council

Posted by on 14 July 2021 | Comments

Tags: Somerleyton, Community Partnerships, funding

Green-fingered pupils from an East Suffolk school have received funding to help them work on their allotment, improving their mental and physical wellbeing and helping them to develop a love of the outdoors.

Following a successful application to the Lowestoft and Northern Parishes Community Partnership’s Small Grant Scheme, Somerleyton Primary School has received £1,270 to purchase gardening tools and equipment to help the children work on their new allotment.

The school has recently secured a nearby allotment plot to help widen the children’s education and love of the outdoors. The funding will provide tools for 20 children, as well as a worm composter, watering cans, gloves and storage, along with waterproof mats, benches, clipboards and whiteboards to enable outdoor teaching.

Cllr Paul Ashdown, East Suffolk ward councillor for Lothingland and Chair of the Lowestoft and Northern Parishes Community Partnership, said: “Through our Small Grants Scheme, funding was made available for groups providing services which address our Community Partnership priorities, which include improving the health and wellbeing of local primary school children. Getting outside in the fresh air, growing your own food and being involved with nature are all known to positively impact on mental health and we are delighted to be able to support this excellent project through our funding scheme.”

Dr Rachael Stanley, Governor at Somerleyton Primary School said: "Support for school projects such as this are incredibly important and we are extremely grateful for the grant award. The money will help enhance the allotment area, making the space an even more exciting and accessible learning space for the children." 

A cheque was presented by Cllr Ashdown and Vice Chair Danny Steel to headteacher Louise Spall and school governor Dr Rachael Stanley on Friday 2 July.