Newts enjoying new pond area at Ringwood Junior School paid for by grant from Wessex Water Foundation Environment Fund and funding from Ringwood Town Council

A HOST of newts are enjoying a new pond area at Ringwood Junior School where they are keeping pupils entertained.

The school received cash from Wessex Water Foundation Environment Fund and the town council to transform its old leaking pond and overgrown surroundings into a vibrant outdoor learning space.

Volunteers including staff and parents worked to clear the area, reline and improve the pond, replace broken fencing, create wildlife habitats and renovate the vegetable garden.

Within days, frogs and newts were seen darting between the water lilies and reeds, and wildlife in the pond has continued to flourish.

Pupils now have new nature areas where they can learn about pond habitats in lessons and afterschool clubs.

Headteacher Sally-Ann Evans said: “We’re very grateful for the grants from the Wessex Water Foundation and Ringwood Town Council, and the hard work of our school community, to create a wonderful nature area that not only enhances our children’s learning experiences, but also provides important habitats for wildlife.”