From Neglected Grounds to Award-Winning Wildlife Haven
A Blaenau Gwent primary school has been honoured with a prestigious environmental award for transforming an unused section of their school grounds into a thriving wildlife sanctuary. Pen-y-Cwm School in Ebbw Vale received the Community Transformation Award at the Keep Wales Tidy Awards 2025, recognising their outstanding efforts in creating a biodiverse and fully accessible outdoor space.
Community Collaboration Creates Lasting Legacy
The remarkable transformation saw pupils, staff, and parents working together on the project, which received funding from Keep Wales Tidy and support from Blaenau Gwent Council's Biodiversity Team and the Blaenau Gwent Rangers. The collaborative effort included the construction of an accessible ramp, ensuring the garden can be enjoyed by everyone regardless of mobility.
The newly created wildlife garden now features multiple ecological elements including:
- A small pond habitat
- Flower beds to support pollinators
- Mini-beast and hedgehog homes
- Facilities for growing fruit and vegetables used in school cooking lessons
National Recognition for School's Achievement
Judges described themselves as 'truly impressed' by the school's dedication to turning a neglected site into both a wildlife haven and welcoming space for learners, staff and the wider community. They particularly praised the creation of a 'vibrant, fully accessible garden' and noted that having it designed and built by the learners themselves made the project 'even more remarkable'.
The judging panel commended the school's creativity, teamwork and dedication, stating it had 'not only revitalised the space but created a lasting legacy' that would benefit the community for years to come.
Two staff members and two learners proudly represented the school at the awards ceremony in Llandudno, where they received a certificate and £100 in gardening vouchers to support their ongoing environmental work.
Headteacher Deborah Herald expressed her pride, stating: "I'm so incredibly proud of our learners and staff for their vision and hard work on this project. The award is a testament to what can be achieved when a community works together to create something meaningful and sustainable."
Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, Councillor Sue Edmunds, visited the garden and described it as "an absolutely wonderful project" that contributes significantly towards biodiversity and sustainability goals while providing an excellent outdoor space for learners and staff.
Learner Ethan Daly shared his personal experience: "My proudest moment was winning the Community Transformation Award in Llandudno. I had never been to North Wales before and thought that we would never have a chance at winning. However, I had my fingers crossed. It made me feel really happy and proud of what we have created."
Project Manager and Teaching Assistant James O'Connell highlighted the challenges overcome during the project, noting: "There were many obstacles and challenges during this project. However, it is testament to us as a school community that continued perseverance, hard work and dedication can eventually bring success."
