This article is from page 33 of the 2007-07-03 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 33 JPG
STUDENTS at St Clare’s school have been enjoying the new sensory garden, which has been officially opened by Dr Willie Walsh.
The garden, designed by John Mc- Carthy in conjunction with the staff and pupils, is set in a glorious sunny position. It is specially designed to children uninhibited access around the garden that allows them to dis- cover something new at every turn. Children in electric wheelchairs are free to roam and to enjoy all the beauty of the garden. The design of the garden is such that certain areas are specially planted to appeal to the sense of sound, while other areas ap- peal to the sense of touch.
There are four pergolas in the gar- den and in future years an abundance of trailing plants will provide shade and colour to the garden.
According to school principal Anne Walshe, “there is much to see and do in this wonderful space. We are pleased that it will integrate with the curriculum at the school. Not only will the children use the garden to study nature and the environment but there are many opportunities to use the garden for learning about orien- teering and following directions”
The Board of Management of St. Clare’s School acquired the land from Ennis Town Council around 18 months ago. This new garden is sited on a portion of land located between the school and a former halting.
The land was zoned as recreational and the board set about planning something unique that was specially designed to meet the needs of chil- dren and young teenagers with spe- EU aerere nce
John Costelloe, chairperson of the board, was the driving force behind the project. He was there from start to finish, ensuring the successful completion of a long-term project.
The first task was to put in twenty extra parking spaces for staff and parents but the real vision of the board was to provide a recreational area for the children. This comprises of a playing pitch for football, a play area for climbing and exploring and finally a sensory garden.
Anne said, “The board of manage-
ment would like to thank all those who helped them to build this gar- den. In particular the Clare Federa- tion for Special Needs who gave a loan towards the purchase of the land and other voluntary groups including the Ennis Lions Club, Ennis and Dis- trict Soroptomists, Wings, Miltown Malbay walking club and PJ Harvey of New York.”
She added, “We know that this gar- den, playground and football pitch will get much use and give endless fun and enjoyment to children with Special Needs for many years to come. As it grows and matures it will become a most beautiful and indeed spiritual place and a lasting tribute to all those involved and to our special needs children”’.