Transforming my old school’s garden in Great Somerford

Red Landscaping is immensely proud to have transformed the garden of my old primary school, Walter Powell School in Great Somerford, with the support and involvement of our wonderful community members and dedicated school staff.

I have a connection with the school that goes back generations. My Great-Great-grandfather, grandfather, dad, brother, and daughter, Mabel Scott, had a wonderful time at WPS, and I will never forget the special time she had here. The Scott family is truly part of the history of Great Somerford.

The process started months ago when the headteacher contacted me for advice, straight after the call I was committed I love the ethos to the school and how much they value time outside. They already have a pre-school den, an allotment and I often see them exploring the village and local woods.

I created a design within their budget for the supplies, as we donated our time as the smiles and laughter of the children mean more than money.

Although it was technically a two-week job, it was completed in just six days; we were lucky and blessed with the sunshine. We got it done thanks to the understanding and speedy service from our suppliers.

Thanks to everyone that said hello during the week, it was great to catch up and see how pleased everyone is with our amazing local school.

Here’s a breakdown of what we did

• Extended the space by 60% 
• Leveled
• Fencing
• Installed artificial grass
• Built a sand and rock it
• Hung colourful sun sails
• Improved the decking
• New wood chip border
• Path

Thanks to the suppliers for pulling out the stops to get things on-site in a very tight window,

• Chris Rexworthy at Huws Grey, Malmesbury
• Tom at TCR Haulage
• Phil Ward Haulage

Extra thanks to Euan for stepping up to the mark and showing excellent work ethic, great leadership, great dumper driving and answering all the questions I asked of him. Thank you, and well done, Euan

The children now have a safe, fun area to play, dig and learn in. We are sure they will love the sand pit and rock pits, we love that the fencing has hooks to store the hoops, the bug house and nature posters are already up. Thanks to the lovely sun sails the children can now gather in. the garden for story time as well.

The garden was finished and ready for the children to enjoy on their first day after the May half term. The memories made here are irreplaceable, and it’s a joy to contribute to the school’s legacy by creating a space that will continue to inspire countless smiles for the next generation.

Thank you to Walter Powell School in Great Somerford, it was an absolute pleasure to work with you. We look forward to seeing how the garden develops and what more you add to it.

The before photos

Feedback from the school