A primary school in Melksham is to give its garden area a makeover, to the delight of pupils.

Developer Bellway has donated £400 to Aloeric Primary School to help pay for improvements to its outdoor facilities.

The money will be used to install raised beds in the garden of a bungalow which is used as a space for quiet contemplation by pupils experiencing stress or anxiety.

As well as creating a more attractive environment for the children, it is hoped these new additions will kickstart the bungalow’s vegetable patch.

Rebecca Clifton, head teacher of Aloeric Primary School, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Bellway for their generous donation. This money will help us start to improve our outdoor facilities and create a more welcoming and stimulating environment for the children.

Rebecca Clifton (centre) head teacher of Aloeric Primary School with pupils at the school

Rebecca Clifton (centre) head teacher of Aloeric Primary School with pupils at the school

“As a school, we have made it a key priority to improve our outdoor space in order to provide a more positive play experience for our pupils. This is something which is particularly important given the restrictions that children have had to endure over the past year.

“Our pupils have been unable to explore, see new things, or be with their friends, which is why we want to make their time at school post lockdown as enjoyable and fulfilling as possible.”

Rachel Way, sales manager for Bellway South West, added: “As a housebuilder, we are committed to supporting the local communities in which we build and Aloeric Primary School is located less than a mile from Bowood View.

“This past year has been a difficult one for everyone, but especially for young children who have missed out on several months of being in the classroom, playing with their friends and enjoying new experiences.

“We have been hugely impressed by the school’s plans to revitalise their garden area and encourage pupils to rekindle their sense of adventure as restrictions begin to ease. We are more than happy to support this wonderful project and we hope our donation helps the school to turn this vision into a reality.”