Robertson Construction Group Ltd were awarded the Chesterfield College Life Science and Engineering project, under the YORbuild 3 Medium Framework, on behalf of Chesterfield College. Whilst undertaking the works, Kia Mann, a teacher at Parkside, reached out to Roberston and requested support for the garden rejuvenation project.

Robertson delivered the Parkside Primary Academy Outdoor Garden Rejuvenation to fulfil their YOR4Good Fund social value commitment.  Construction consisted of five main stages, which included:

1. Overgrown vegetation cut and cleared off-site, including pruning small trees
2. Sub-scan of the existing ground level to ensure no services prior to excavation
3. Excavation of existing ground level to level and compact to re-landscape the area
4. Groundworks including (but not limited to): laying 100mm subbase; imported topsoil; laying sensory paths; install sand pit
5. Joinery works including the installing mud kitchen and raised stage

And in addition to the above the provision of SEND related outdoor equipment.

The delivery of this project helps to provide educational opportunities for Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) children, which includes:

• The creation of new accessible space to meet and exceed the current resourced allowance.
• The provision of an outdoor space to enhance opportunities for engagement in outdoor learning.
• An increase in class sizes by virtue of increased teaching space, increasing inclusivity.
• The promotion of a sustainable and environmentally friendly culture, contributing to local biodiversity, wellbeing and environmental balance.

In total, Robertson Construction Group Ltd provided over  £36,000 of social value to the Parkside Primary Academy Outdoor Garden Rejuvenation project.

Kia Mann – Teacher, Parkside Primary Academy said:  “The transformation of our outdoor space has been nothing short of incredible. Before the project, the area was overgrown and unsafe, limiting the opportunities we could offer our children. Now, thanks to the support of Robertson and the YOR4Good Fund, we have a beautiful sensory garden that our pupils use every single day.

The new pathways, sensory features and play areas have created a safe and stimulating environment where children with a wide range of needs can explore, learn and thrive together. We’ve already seen improvements in communication, confidence, and emotional regulation among our SEND pupils, and teachers are making full use of the space for outdoor lessons and small group activities.

This project has not only enhanced our school but has strengthened our whole community. Families, staff, and children are proud of the garden, and it has become a space that brings everyone together. We are incredibly grateful for the care and dedication shown throughout the process, and we know this space will continue to benefit generations of Parkside children for years to come.”

Marta Langton, Social Impact Manager, Robertson said “The project has transformed an underused outdoor area into a safe, stimulating, and sustainable learning environment for children with special educational needs and the wider school community. By fostering inclusion, encouraging outdoor education, and promoting environmental responsibility, the initiative will deliver immediate benefits while creating a legacy of wellbeing, accessibility, and opportunity for future generations.”