This is part of the wider programme United Futures is delivering in the Blackpool area to support United Utilities capital pro-grammes.
Devonshire Road Primary School is an innovative eco-school situated in an area of social deprivation, with little green space surrounding it.
When the school was being designed, the architect was mindful of this and worked closely with the school and the local community to incorporated many unique and sustainable features.
One example of this is that the school has a rainwater harvester, which is fed through to a special touch screen display in the hallway of the school where children can see how much water is being collected, recycled and used throughout the day.
They also built a ‘tech deck’ situated on the roof of the school which has spectacular views over the grounds and surrounding area. This makes a wonderful outdoor learning environment for the children.
It has a weather station where information is collected, for example wind speed and temperature, which is then displayed through a touch screen unit that the children can access and use in many subjects across the curriculum.
How does your garden grow?
The school was keen to develop an area where the pupils could plant and cultivate their own fruit, vegetables and flowers. United Futures has funded a roof top garden surrounding the tech deck to enable the children to do this whilst observing wildlife and learning about the environment and factors which have an impact on it.
For many of the children this is the only opportunity they have to grow plants and flowers, as this is something they are unable to do at home due to the lack of local green space.
This is a truly innovative gardening project where a roof terrace has been transformed into a unique garden for children and parents. The garden allows them to grow their own organic food, learn about nutrition and the value of eating healthy food.
Seating and a pond in the garden were also included so children and members of the community have a chance to relax and spend time together in a green space. The pond will also give the children the opportunity to learn about pond dipping and try their hand at planting wetland plants.
The garden has provided ownership of an outdoor space for the community and enables children, parents and other family members to get involved together. The garden will be maintained by the school and the local community with help from the local gardening club.