A new sensory garden at Chesterfield College is already making a positive impact on learners, thanks to a YOR4Good-funded initiative delivered by Robertson Construction Group.

Developed as part of the Chesterfield College Life Science and Engineering project under the YORbuild3 Medium Works framework, the garden has transformed an underused area of the campus into a vibrant, inclusive space, designed to support wellbeing. Delivered entirely as a Benefit in Kind initiative, the project brought together Robertson’s team and supply chain partners to provide labour, materials, and expertise at no cost to the college.

Chesterfield College had identified a growing need for dedicated wellbeing provision, with 1,400 learners at the college identifying as having special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).  The sensory garden has been created in response to this growing demand, providing access to a calm, therapeutic space to support emotional regulation and engagement with education.

Robertson Construction Group worked collaboratively with the college to minimise disruption and align with the needs of students and staff, designing and delivering a tailored solution. Maisie Doherty (Assistant Quantity Surveyor) and Marta Langton (Social Impact Manager) acted as the primary stakeholder contacts. They liaised directly with the beneficiary organisation, ensuring clear communication, alignment of expectations, and timely updates on project progress.

Works included:

• Landscaping and site clearance, including vegetation and stump removal
• Installation of new, secure fencing to improve safety
• Tree works to increase light and visibility
• Planting and creation of sensory-focused features
• Overall improvements to usability, accessibility, and visual quality

Located within the main campus, the garden provides a safe, accessible, and inclusive environment, designed to stimulate the senses and encourage engagement. It provides opportunities for social interaction, confidence-building, and cognitive development, while also offering a safety for learners accessing safeguarding services.

The initiative not only delivers immediate benefits but also creates a lasting legacy for the college. Ongoing maintenance of the garden is being embedded into student learning pathways, giving learners practical experience while ensuring the space continues to thrive for years to come

The garden’s impact has already been recognised, with improved learner retention, attendance, and engagement. The facility will continue to benefit thousands of learners each year.

Eric Hadley, Director of Facilities and Estates at Chesterfield College, praised the project, saying:
“The garden project has been a marvellous success… the whole area has taken on a lease of life. We are extremely pleased with the outcome.”

This project is a strong example of how YOR4Good funding, delivered with framework partners, can be used to deliver meaningful social value, supporting inclusive education and improving wellbeing outcomes for local communities.

This Site Initiative forms part of the wider social value commitment upheld by Robertson across the communities in which they work.

• Total project value: approximately £22,463
• Contribution included labour, materials, design, and project management
• Delivered in partnership with the college and local stakeholders