A ribbon-cutting and tree planting ceremony was held at Grove Park Special School on Friday afternoon to mark the official opening of their garden project.
Luckily, the sun was shining and everyone enjoyed the opportunity to be together outside to mark the special occasion.
As the crowd gathered around the gate to the new garden, Headteacher Julie Campion thanked the team who brought the project together; including the amazing gardeners Ryan and Ashley, pupils and students, parents, staff and volunteers.
Mike Theobald of Grove Park Charitable Trust (GPCT), added:
This new garden facility is a brilliant addition to the existing play areas at the School as it will provide the children with an opportunity to work out in the garden in the fresh air, get their hands dirty, learn how things grow from seeds and enjoy the fruits of their labour.
Who knows, they may be able to set up a stall to sell some of the produce – a great learning experience in a fantastic environment.
Mike Theobald of Grove Park Charitable Trust
Following applause from the crowd, special guest Mayor of Crowborough, Councillor David Neeves, officially opened the garden project by cutting a ribbon.
Guests then enjoyed an Afternoon Tea generously provided by the School and GPCT, served by members of school staff and volunteers.
Cllr Neeves also kindly supervised the planting of a Ginkgo biloba tree, marked with a plaque to celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The Maidenhair tree is considered to be one of the oldest living tree species in the world.
Grove Park is a community Special School for children aged from 4-19, who have a wide range of learning needs and disabilities, including moderate, complex, severe, and profound or multiple issues. Many of their pupils have an additional diagnosis of autistic spectrum condition. The primary phase is based on Church Road. Older students are co-located with Beacon Academy on Beeches and Green Lane sites.
