Bridging The Gap At Blaengwawr, Aberaman
July 11, 2008
Generations will now work – and play – hand in hand thanks to a stunning community venture in Aberaman.
The “gap” between Blaengwawr Primary School pupils and residents of Maesyffynnon Care Home has been bridged, literally and metaphorically, by the creation of an outdoor environmental classroom and open space for children and older people alike to enjoy.
Delivered with the assistance of a Big Lottery Fund grant, the scheme was officially opened this week and dignitaries were delighted to hear the tale of how the pupils and care home residents worked together to deliver the important project.
Disused land that lay between the school and the care home became the site of inspiration for the pupils and residents. They worked together in order to design a magnificent outdoor area that benefits all ages.
Designed so people can walk around the area and enjoy its natural beauty and outdoor seating, learning and socialising places, the project has taken two and a half years to deliver.
It has specially-created areas to attract wildlife, flora and fauna to learn from, including a bog garden, mini beast area, raised allotment beds and more.
Constructed by Afan Landscapes, the area also has an amphitheatre, outdoor seating, play area and a sensory garden, all of which can be enjoyed thanks to gently winding pathways suitable for pedestrians, older people and those with wheelchairs or pushchairs.
The scheme has been a labour of love for parents, teachers and pupils at Blaengwawr and residents, staff and relatives at Maesyffynnon.
But its delivery has strengthened the bond between the school and the care home and created a bridge between the generations.
Blaengwawr Primary Headteacher Pat Newton explained: “The scheme has been such a labour of love for us. It is amazing to see a disused, overgrown piece of land that lies between the school and the home being turned into such a haven.
“It has been designed to ensure people of all ages get the best from it and the process has been such an important one. Children and the older residents have worked together to deliver designs and look at what should be planted and where.
“It has strengthened the relationship between them and they now have a new, strong relationship that will benefit the wider community.”
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