Great Bedwyn CE School’s Rainwater Garden Design
Introduction:
Great Bedwyn CE School, nestled in a picturesque village setting, is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence within a nurturing and happy environment. With a strong emphasis on holistic development and community engagement, the school has embarked on a project to integrate sustainability into its infrastructure while promoting environmental stewardship among its students. The recent installation of resin bound paving and a PourOn gravel binder drainage system reflects the school's dedication to incorporating innovative solutions to mitigate environmental impact and foster a deeper connection with nature.
Project Overview:
Working with Action for the River Kennet (ARK) a charitable organisation dedicated to conserving and restoring the River Kennet and its catchment area in southern England. The primary objective of the project was to create a rainwater garden design that would redirect rainfall back into the ground, thus reducing strain on the drainage system and promoting groundwater recharge. The implementation involved the installation of resin bound paving, strategically designed to guide water flow, and a PourOn gravel drainage channel filled with loose gravel bound by SureSets PourOn Gravel Binder.
Resin Bound Paving:
The resin bound paving, covering an area of 20m² in Ultramarine Blue colour from the Spectrum recycled glass range, serves as both a functional and aesthetic component of the rainwater garden design. Symbolising running water, the two blue waves incorporated into the paving not only guide the flow of rainwater but also evoke a sense of movement and fluidity. By seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings, the resin bound paving harmonises with the school's ethos of integrating environmental consciousness into everyday life.
PourOn Gravel Drainage Channel:
Complementing the resin bound paving is the PourOn gravel drainage channel, spanning 6m² and filled with 10mm Rhine Gold loose gravel secured with 6kg of SureSet PourOn Gravel Binder. This innovative solution not only provides effective drainage but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the rainwater garden. The permeable nature of the gravel allows water to infiltrate the ground, replenishing the groundwater reservoir and reducing surface runoff.
Integration with School Values:
The rainwater garden design at Great Bedwyn CE School embodies the institution's core values of environmental stewardship, community engagement, and holistic development. By implementing sustainable solutions such as resin bound paving and PourOn gravel drainage, the school not only reduces its ecological footprint but also educates students about the importance of conservation and responsible resource management. Through hands-on involvement in the project, students learn valuable lessons about teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving while fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Conclusion:
Great Bedwyn CE School's initiative to create a rainwater garden design exemplifies its commitment to academic excellence within a sustainable and environmentally conscious framework. By integrating innovative solutions such as resin bound paving and PourOn gravel drainage, the school not only enhances its infrastructure but also cultivates a culture of environmental stewardship among its students and the broader community. Through this project, Great Bedwyn CE School continues to inspire future generations to embrace sustainability and make a positive impact on the world around them.
