Sennockian 2021-2022 | Page 122

CAMPUS REFRESH

Work in the school grounds and gardens is helping us all appreciate the restorative and motivational power of nature .

One of the outcomes of the pandemic has been an increased awareness of the importance of stepping outside , as emphasised by the Headmaster in his assembly to mark the start of the Summer term . As he explained to a Pamoja Hall packed with students and staff : ‘ We are fortunate to have a beautiful campus , one that offers a chance to appreciate the restorative and motivational power of nature … improving wellbeing and lowering stress levels , helping people become more inspired , creative and socially connected .’
This year has seen a number of exciting initiatives led by the Grounds and Gardens teams , headed by Dave Feaver and Andy Bingham , to further facilitate the connection with nature that has such an impact on wellbeing .
Tree growth changes the landscape almost imperceptibly . Where a kitchen garden for the Manor House thrived beyond Claridge lawn in the early 20th century , saplings and undergrowth had gradually taken hold to create a neglected and impenetrable woodland . The relentless ash dieback disease forced us to cut down many of the trees and reassess the area .
118 WELLBEING