Children at Folly View Primary School can now explore the natural world thanks to a freshly created outdoor learning area.

The sensory garden was designed to boost pupils’ mental health, spark imaginative thinking, and support individual growth within a calm and engaging outdoor setting.

The project received £1,500 through the Tesco Community Grants scheme, with the money coming from shoppers who cast their votes using blue tokens at the Faringdon branch.

Local garden specialists Muddy Spades, headed by Royston Oxendale, played a crucial role in bringing the scheme to fruition by providing plants and building bespoke containers for the space.

Richard Evans, chief executive of Cambrian Learning Trust, said the remarkable sensory garden showed what could be achieved when a community worked together towards shared objectives. He noted that the trust took great satisfaction in seeing Folly View Primary School putting its core values of welcome, care, and aspiration into practice in such a tangible way. The space would enhance pupils’ emotional wellbeing while also nurturing curiosity, perseverance, and a lifelong passion for learning.

The garden will additionally support the school’s horticulture club, giving pupils hands-on experience with plant care and environmental awareness.

Folly View Primary School has thanked Tesco Faringdon, Muddy Spades, the Parent-Teacher Association, and everyone who helped turn this dream into a reality.