Dads and the Co-op lend a hand in garden

Apr 2 2008 by Staff Reporter, South Wales Echo

AN infants school has a new garden area and rockery, thanks to a £500 grant – and a little help from dad.

The Mite Group at Maerdy Infants School is a parent-run group, which aims to enhance and develop the school’s environment and reduce its carbon footprint through environmental initiatives.

The project also provides an opportunity for fathers to get involved with their children’s school life.

Now thanks to a grant from The Co-operative Group’s Community Fund, children and their dads have helped to create a new outdoor garden space for the pupils to enjoy.

Headteacher Jan Phillips said: “In addition to the physical aspect of this project where the children learn about the environment as well as caring for wildlife, the scheme also raises awareness of the important role that dads play in their children’s lives and gets them involved in community life.

“We would like to thank The Co-operative for its support.”

Gareth Lewis, chair of The Co-operative South Wales Area Committee, said: “The community fund can make a real and lasting contribution to local communities and we are delighted to make this award to The Mite Group.”