Over the summer holidays 2015, the area outside the sixth form building was transformed from a grassed area to a fantastic learning environment.

Our garden is dedicated to our sadly missed former caretaker Mr Alan Blench, who sadly died in September 2014.

Thanks to some generous fundraising by staff and parents, we were able to create the garden for sixth form students to use in many different ways.

We now have a sensory area with a water feature, small allotment area, seating area to use as an outdoor café and a small grassed area for pet care projects.

We also have a summer house that is used as an outdoor classroom.

Students are responsible for maintaining the garden as well as using it as an outdoor learning environment.

The ‘Alan Blench’ garden was officially opened on Friday 6th November 2015. It was opened by Alan’s wife, Mrs Blench. She was overwhelmed at what the school had done in Alan’s memory.

The Sixth Form students and staff worked very hard to make the garden a fantastic working environment. They planted flowers, created features and they ensure it remains clean and tidy.

The Alan Blench garden is used for a range of lessons, break times as well as special events and activities. Students also develop enterprise knowledge and skills through growing, looking after and selling fruit and vegetables.

The garden is also home to our rabbits and guinea pigs.

Students are able to develop knowledge and skills in Pet Care, gardening, horticulture and environmental studies (RE). They also develop communication skills, social interaction and team work through the tasks they take part in and through relaxation / social time.

In July 2021 (due to COVID restriction) the Year 14 end of Year celebration was held in the garden. Students chose a Hawaiian theme and a BBQ food. They definitely enjoyed their last day in Sixth Form.