Tadley Primary School’s thank you to AWE volunteers who spruced up grounds

Volunteers who helped transform a school’s grounds into an exciting area for the pupils have been given a special thank you, writes Saba Khorassani.

The group, from the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE), were invited back to Tadley Primary School for the assembly, after helping to save the school thousands of pounds by giving up their time for free.

Over five days the volunteers worked with the school’s caretaker to tackle tasks ranging from weeding and planting to hedge trimming.

They also helped by sweeping playgrounds and repairing equipment.

Playground equipment was spruced up and a performance stage and mud kitchen were built.

During the assembly staff and students presented the volunteers with handwritten thank you cards from each class and shared stories of how they have used the new equipment and facilities.

Each volunteer had a personal connection with the school; some as former students, others as parents of Tadley pupils or as friends of school staff.

AWE volunteer Jess Moulder said: "We had such a fantastic time supporting the local school. Everyone was in such high spirits to be able to make incredible changes.

“It has been so rewarding for the team."

The initiative was part of AWE’s Time to Give scheme, which encourages employees to apply for special leave to support their local communities.

The school said it wanted to express its heartfelt appreciation for the volunteers’ efforts, which it added have made a lasting difference.