Plaque Unveils Completion of Parnwell Community Centre Garden
Posted on Thu 30 October 2008
Councillor Mark Collins unveiled a plaque to signify the completion of Parnwell Community Centre Garden on Friday 24 October.
The initial idea of developing the garden was formulated by the Parnwell Family Project, who use the Parnwell Community Centre daily to provide pre-school education for local children. The project is another project in a series of projects funded by Parnwell Fair Share Trust programme. The programme, which runs until 2013, is supporting the people of Parnwell to identify local needs and then developing the local residents skills and imagination by inviting them to participate and benefit from projects which are funded under the programme.
Construction of the educational garden was managed by conservation charity BTCV, along with the help of volunteers from the local community and the Mansfield Skills Centre.
The garden will provide an outdoor classroom for local pre-school children and Brownies and Guides who use the facilities every week. Outdoor education and play sessions to be held in the new garden will enhance children’s learning and development and provide both educational and social benefits as the children develop ownership and responsibility for the garden.
The garden contains three raised beds made from railway sleepers. Two of these contain sensory plants to help the children develop their senses. Another of the raised beds is to be used for growing edible plants. The children will gain firsthand experience of the natural world through study and practical care of the garden as well as providing the opportunity to learn about growing food and healthy eating. The garden also contains a wildlife area to attract birds, butterflies and insects, and includes a log pile and nest boxes
BTCV Project Officer Jo Stradling said, ‘The idea to develop an educational garden in Parnwell was first formulated in 2006, I am so pleased that this idea has now come to life. I would like to personally thank all of the volunteers involved in what I am sure will become a garden which is both enjoyable and educational for many generations of Parnwell residents.‘
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