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Children at a pupil referral unit are creating a community wellbeing garden after becoming one of the first schools in Wales to benefit from a new scheme.

The Learning Centre in Glan y Nant has been awarded a new garden package by Keep Wales Tidy, which will donate plants, tools and other materials to the unit for free as part of the Local Places for Nature scheme.

The scheme is part of a wider Local Places for Nature fund from the Welsh Government, which aims to enhance and restore nature in communities.

Teacher Rhys Bain, from the Learning Centre, said: “The pandemic has certainly given us all a greater appreciation of nature and the way in which it supports our health and wellbeing.

“This project has enabled us to continue supporting our community by creating a space where neighbours can relax and enjoy at any time.

“We encourage other schools and communities to get involved, particularly because when children start reaping the food and flowers that come from a garden, they realize a garden’s impact on them and their impact on the garden.

“Once they have this tangible experience, it is much easier to teach them to care for the environment.”

Louise Tambini, Deputy Chief Executive of Keep Wales Tidy, said: “Over the last twelve months, more people than ever have come to appreciate the value of nature on their doorstep. But urgent action must be taken to reverse its decline. 

“We’re delighted that the Learning Centre now has the opportunity to make a real difference through Local Places for Nature. We hope other communities will be inspired to get involved.” 

Hundreds of free garden packages are available and can be ordered on the Keep Wales Tidy website.

The Learning Centre is for children who aren’t able to attend a mainstream school.

Pupils who are referred there often need greater care and support than their school is able to provide. 

Children who attend the unit may be suffering with emotional or behavioural difficulties, such as anger or mental health issues.

Some children may have experienced severe bullying or been diagnosed with special educational needs (SEN).