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Title: Living Wall Stars in New Look School Author: DMBC  ID & Publication: 20120311033 ~ The-Villager.co.uk  Area: Scawsby  Subject: Education

A ‘living wall’ will be unveiled as part of an official ceremony to mark the completion of a £2.3million redesign and refurbishment of Saltersgate Junior School on Friday 30 March.

The living wall covered by a blanket of extensive vegetation is the focal point of the design and is the first of its type for a school in the UK.

As well as being a striking architectural feature, the 98 square metre living wall helps insulate the building, uses rain water from the roof to water the plants and has a positive effect on the natural environment. The school children have been involved in its planting, will help look after the plants and will use the wall as educational area studying the different plant types and insect these will attract.

To mark this auspicious occasion headteacher Mandy Oxer, accompanied by former headteacher Peter Marchant, will use garden shears to cut a ribbon on the living wall. A memorial garden will be opened, there will be performances from the choir and a dance troupe and children will read out their own poetry to guests.

The extensive refurbishment has included 600 square metres of new build consisting of a contemporary new reception area, new offices, updated ICT provision courtesy of a new ICT suite, a light well, a lift and a modern multi-purpose sports hall which is available for the whole community to use. The school has also benefited from new electrics and plumbing.

Mandy Oxer, Headteacher at Saltersgate Junior School, said: ‘We are thrilled with our refurbished and remodelled school as it will greatly enhance the opportunities and experiences of our children. Our school is a happy school with a hard working team of adults and pupils who engage very well in their learning. We are committed to providing high quality education, and firmly believe that the remodelling work and refurbishment have produced a building which matches the excellence and high expectations that all stakeholders have in every area of school life.

‘The ‘Living Wall’ is an interesting addition and it closely matches our aims as an Eco School. Saltersgate Junior School is a National lead school for climate change awareness and the living wall is a visible reminder of our work and commitment to this aspect.’

Chris Pratt, Director of the Council’s Children and Young People’s Service, said: ‘The modern design and enhancements to the education provision have transformed the facilities at Saltersgate Junior School. The improvements will help the young people receive a first class education and provide them with a range of other opportunities that will prepare them for the rest of their lives. Tremendous credit must go to everyone who played their part in delivering this wonderful new look school.’

The improvements at Saltersgate Junior School was part of Doncaster Council’s £10.8million government funded primary capital programme. The other schools that have benefited are Kirk Sandall Junior School and Town Field, Carcroft and Owston Park Primary Schools.

The Primary Capital Programme is being delivered by the council's education build team.

The design, procurement and contract management of the five primary capital schools was managed by the council’s technical services department.

The living wall was supplied and installed by specialists Cityroofs. The principal contractor was George Hurst and Sons Limited.

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