A new accessible outdoor space has been created for pupils at Mowbray Academy in Bedale, thanks to support from Willmott Dixon and its supply chain partners, alongside the school and the YOR4Good Fund.

Completed in July 2026, the project has transformed an underused area of the school into a safe and accessible nature space, complete with a new pathway and outdoor equipment. The investment is helping to provide students and the wider community with improved opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities, learning and wellbeing.

Mowbray Academy, part of Ascent Trust, supports young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and is committed to building brighter futures for its students. Prior to the project, the school had limited access to safe outdoor space after restrictions were placed on the use of a nearby nature reserve.

Through the YOR4Good Fund, Willmott Dixon provided support to the value of £10,420.59 to deliver the improvements. The project was developed collaboratively with Mowbray Academy to ensure the design and works reflected the specific needs of the school community.

A number of organisations came together to make the project a success. Before works began, 360 Mapping supported the project by carrying out a subscan of the area to support safe planning and delivery. Construction works were then undertaken by Willmott Dixon supply chain partner Wyn Construction, who completed the scheme to a high standard, in just four days.

The project demonstrates the positive impact that can be achieved through partnership working, with all organisations maintaining a clear focus on delivering meaningful social value outcomes for local people.

As well as enhancing the school environment, the initiative supports Willmott Dixon’s and YORhub’s wider commitment to creating long-term social value through investment in inclusive community infrastructure, helping to improve wellbeing, opportunity and sustainability within local communities.

Jessie Bellamy, Teacher and Careers Lead at Mowbray Academy, said:

“The work is great and to a high standard, we are very happy.”

The completed space will provide lasting benefits for current and future students, creating greater opportunities for outdoor learning, recreation and connection with nature. Through the YOR4Good Fund, the project leaves a positive legacy that will be enjoyed by the Mowbray Academy community for years to come.