A TEAM of more than 40 volunteers from One Church Keynsham has helped transform an overgrown garden area at Lift Broadlands, creating a new outdoor space for students to enjoy.
Adults and children from the church community spent a day clearing overgrown areas, building steps, collecting litter, chipping branches and helping uncover the garden’s potential as a welcoming space for students.
The project is the latest part of a growing partnership between One Church Keynsham and Lift Broadlands, which began after the church offered its support to the school community.
One Church Keynsham’s support has included providing back-to-school essentials such as bags and stationery for families who need extra help and donating Christmas hampers and gifts.
The school and church are now looking ahead to further opportunities to work together, including naming the new garden area, adding a bench or similar feature, and starting a student mentoring programme from September.
Sarah Hansford, community outreach lead at One Church Keynsham, said: “We believe communities are stronger when people look out for one another, and Broadlands is such an important part of Keynsham, doing brilliant work with young people.
“We hope this is the beginning of a long and meaningful partnership supporting pupils and staff for years to come.”
Laura Stone, principal at Lift Broadlands, said: “We are incredibly grateful to One Church Keynsham for the support they have shown our school community.
“The garden project is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when people come together.
“We are excited to continue building this partnership and exploring new ways to support our children and families.”
