Bensham Manor School in Thornton Heath officially opened their Ground Force-style project which gave valuable work experience to eight pupils with special needs.

The day on September 28 was used to thank all who had contributed to the success of the scheme, which began in June 2001.

The pupils undertook the planning, research and preparation of a gardening programme, transforming unsightly, tyre-covered land surrounding the school.

Under guidance, the teenagers laboured through hard and compacted soil, and their physical exertion was more than matched by their efforts to recruit support from garden suppliers, nurseries, and building material suppliers.

As a result of their strategic thinking, discounted plants and materials were provided by B&Q, Travis Perkins, and Steve's Florists.

During this time they also entertained a group of house-bound elderly residents of the nearby Parchmore Day Centre, talking to them about their activities.

Steve's Florist provided flowers for the pupils to create a design for the morning: this was part of the Thornton Heath Good Neighbours Scheme organised as part of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Project's (RSVP) Get Active week.

The decking building team was led by Clive Fox, the design and technology coordinator, who was assisted by a group of pupils in year 10. The decking area is set to be used as an outdoor classroom in good weather.

Seating on this area commemorates a past member of staff, Jim Binfield.

As well as thanking all those who helped with the project, the day also included day centre residents to see how it had developed.

Head teacher Jenny Green said that the whole project had not only provided a very pleasant and useful area for the children to enjoy, but also created an opportunity for the development of links across a broad spectrum of the local community.

However, this is only the start of further activities with the Parchmore Centre as there are plans for a special performance of the Christmas production for the members.

October 24, 2001 16:30