The pond came about with the help of Ivan Dunn of the Wear Rivers Trust and a lot of parent digging power. It was a long time in the planning because we knew making the area safe was of huge importance. An Eco competition win provided the funding for a safety fence, workstations, an equipment shed and some seating. Alongside the pond, one dad and granddad built a minibeast hotel from donated bricks and wood, while assorted plants and ferns added further interest and habitats to the area.
“Build it and they will come!” we were told, and sure enough the creatures did come, all by themselves. Our pond is now home to a huge variety of minibeast including waterboatmen, diving beetles, frogs, newts and dragonflies. It is an excellent source of interest and a great learning tool, enjoyed by all classes.