Children at Pillgwenlly Primary School returned to a nice surprise after their half-term break.
Whilst their school was closed and the children and staff were having a well-earned break, staff from construction company ISG transformed their outdoor play area. Newport City Homes is using ISG to build a Costa Coffee ‘eco pod’ store as part of the Old Town Dock development in the city.
The company was asked to provide some community benefits in the area and Newport City Homes linked them up with the school.
Over half-term the team from ISG:
- Fitted bench seating for picnics or teaching and put down bark mulch flooring.
- Weeded and jet washed the patio and stained some benches.
- Added new lines to the playground and fixed some uneven sections to reduce the risk of tripping over.
Andrew Sheppard, Deputy Head Teacher, said: “The internal garden looks amazing. Staff and pupils are looking forward to using it during the summer months. It will be a great addition to the outdoor provision. We really appreciate all that you have done for our school.”
Laura Palfrey, Development Partnerships Coordinator for Newport City Homes, said: “It was lovely to hear how pleased the staff and pupils are with their new-look outdoor space. They are going to be able to enjoy playing and learning in the fresh air and we are proud to have worked with ISG to make this happen.”
Simon King Operations Manager at ISG said: “The ISG team is very pleased to be able to support the local community during the project at Costa Coffee. It was inspiring to see the generosity of our supply chain partners, who were all keen to get involved and be a part of this important community project at the school as soon as it was discussed.
“Donations have ranged from free labour, plant and materials and my thanks go to everyone involved. We are so glad the school are happy with the upgrades and hope the children enjoy their new play areas for many years to come.”
(Above) The internal garden at Pillgwenlly Primary School
(Above) The new picnic teaching area at Pillgwenlly Primary School
(Above) Playing courts at Pillgwenlly Primary School