News

Richmond Villages Aston-on-Trent has successfully helped Aston-on-Trent Primary School's Parent Association (ASPA) secure a £2,500 grant from the Bupa Foundation to support the creation of a new outdoor Forest School Classroom.

The funding will contribute towards an inspiring outdoor learning environment where pupils can develop their connection with nature, benefit from hands-on learning experiences, and take part in the school's growing Forest School programme. The new classroom, due to open in September, will provide a dedicated space for up to 15 children, supporting activities including reading groups, learning interventions, quiet learning sessions, and outdoor education.

The successful application reflects the long-standing relationship between Richmond Villages Aston-on-Trent and Aston-on-Trent Primary School. Over the years, pupils have regularly visited the village to spend time with residents, perform during seasonal celebrations, and participate in community events, helping to foster meaningful intergenerational connections within the local community.

When ASPA shared details of its fundraising campaign earlier this year, the team at Richmond Villages recognised an opportunity to give something back.

Kerstin Taylor, Village Manager at Richmond Villages Aston-on-Trent, said: "As a village community ourselves, we have always valued the strong relationship we share with Aston-on-Trent Primary School. The children regularly support our residents through visits, performances and community activities, bringing so much enjoyment and social connection. We also have several colleagues whose families are part of the school community, so supporting this project felt like a natural extension of a partnership that already exists.

"There was also a personal motivation for me. My son delivers Forest School programmes within a secondary school setting, so I have seen first-hand the positive impact outdoor learning can have on children's confidence, wellbeing and engagement, particularly for those who benefit from additional support or alternative learning environments. Knowing the difference these spaces can make made this a project I was especially passionate about helping."

Following submission of the application in April, ASPA and Richmond Villages waited until late June to learn that the bid had been awarded successfully.

The grant is expected to be just one part of a continued partnership between Richmond Villages and the school. Alongside helping to secure funding, the village's gardening and lifestyle teams are exploring opportunities to support future Forest School activities, share horticultural knowledge, and assist with outdoor learning projects throughout the year.

Sam Moore, Headteacher at Aston-on-Trent Primary School, added: "The school community would like to extend its sincere gratitude to Richmond Villages for helping to make this long-held vision a reality. Their generous grant has enabled us to prepare our outdoor classroom, ensuring it is ready to be enjoyed by our pupils in the new academic year.

"We are also excited about the opportunity to collaborate on future projects with the gardening and lifestyle teams, further enhancing our Forest School provision and enriching the learning experiences available to the children of Aston-on-Trent Primary School.

"This partnership is a wonderful example of the strength of our local community and the people who make Aston-on-Trent such a special place. Together, we are creating opportunities that will benefit our children for years to come."