Donation Enhances Horticulture Provision for SEND Students
Kennel Lane School in Bracknell has received a generous donation of sensory planters and gardening equipment worth more than £3,000 from housebuilder Cala Homes Thames and landscaping firm Frontier Surrey. The new resources are designed to help students aged 14 to 19 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) learn about local nature and build confidence through hands-on gardening lessons.
Custom Planters Focus on the Senses
The custom-built sensory planters each focus on a different sense, such as taste, scent, or touch. A special bed is also included to attract friendly pollinators like bees. Staff from both businesses visited the school to help pupils plant and label new flowers, with safety boots and gloves provided as part of the donation.
Partnership Builds on Previous Employability Visits
This project builds on a long-term partnership, following earlier volunteer visits where Cala Homes taught children about modern house construction. The contribution is part of Cala's wider community pledge to support neighbourhoods where they build new properties.
School Leaders Express Gratitude
Alison Barringer, key stage three lead at Kennel Lane School, said: “We’re delighted to have developed a strong and positive relationship with Cala through their employability visits, which have been greatly enjoyed by our learners. Their generous donation has made a real difference to our horticulture provisions, enabling learners to safely access a wider range of practical activities within their lessons.” She added: “We are truly grateful for the time, generosity, and ongoing support shown by the Cala team. Their involvement continues to enrich our learning environment and create meaningful, real-world opportunities for our young people.”
Developer Emphasises Sustainability and Community
Eileen Guihen, sales and marketing director at Cala Thames, commented: “On behalf of our team, we are proud to continue supporting the enhancement of students’ knowledge at Kennel Lane, especially when it comes to sustainability. We trust that the equipment and inclusive planting space provided offer all individuals the opportunity to engage in gardening and develop skills valuable for their future careers.” She continued: “At Cala, ensuring that we nurture and support the residents in the neighbourhoods we develop is an essential part of our work, and initiatives like this make us proud to continue serving our communities.”
Landscaping Firm Praises Charitable Impact
Nicole Standivan, customer care manager from Frontier Surrey, said: “It has been a real honour to contribute to such a worthwhile charitable project that has such a positive impact on people's lives, happiness, and horticultural learning. The team and I thoroughly enjoyed spending the day with the children, teaching them about the different senses involved in gardening and planting.” She added: “We hope our contribution has created a lasting space that the school and its pupils can enjoy for many years to come.”
For more information about the community pledge initiative, visit the official Cala Homes website.
