We returned to Duffryn 18-months after the completion of the heat network replacement project for the official opening of the Tredegar Primary School's Nurture Park
Head Teacher of Tredegar Primary School celebrating the opening with Vital Energi’s Operations Manager, Richard Marchant
Jenny continues, “Our aim is to build that connection with nature. Our children will develop so many valuable skills through engagement in our Nurture Farm I’m proud to provide these opportunities, not just for our children at Tredegar Park Primary School, but children across Newport City Council. Our aim is to develop our school provision over the coming months and then look to extend enrichment opportunities outside of school hours. It would be great to see different organisations benefiting from this wonderful resource in the heart of Duffryn.”
A Hands-On Learning Experience
The Nurture Farm features goats, chickens, and vegetable beds which pupils will help to tend. The initiative enables children to take produce “from field to fork”, with some sold to raise funds for the school and surplus vegetables sent home to families. The space also includes outdoor classrooms, seating areas, games, and a firepit for group activities.
This initiative supports the school’s Edible Education programme, which teaches food sustainability and resilience at a time when resources are stretched by the cost-of-living crisis.
Richard Marchant, our Operations Manager explained: “What we hoped to achieve through the Duffryn project was a lasting legacy. With the introduction from Heydn Housing Association, we were able to work alongside some fantastic charities and community groups, including Tredegar Primary School. Coming back 18 months after the heat network was completed to see the children enjoying this space is a real privilege.
“What’s truly special is that the facilities will also be shared with children from other schools, ensuring the benefits extend across the wider community.”
The space includes outdoor classrooms and play areas to bridge the gap between the classroom and outdoor learning.
Building on Previous Commitment
The project follows the school’s earlier outdoor improvements, also supported by us, which included play kitchens, activity stations and “Tinker Tables” designed to foster imagination, fine motor skills and social development, particularly important for younger pupils whose learning and wellbeing were impacted by the pandemic.
Mark Chircop of Heydn Housing Association commented: “Through our internal discussions with our Procurement department we were able to ensure that there was significant support available via community benefits, embedded within the contract. Several discussions were had, where we were able to provide several options based on our intelligence and community knowledge. From this, we were able to build a positive collaboration with Tredegar Park Primary and Vital, that enabled us to deliver something truly impactful. This provision will support 430 children and the wider community, creating a positive, long-term legacy and it was great to welcome them back to Duffryn for the official opening.”
A Legacy Beyond Infrastructure
The Duffryn Heat Network Replacement Project saw us replace the original 1970s system with a modern, low-carbon network serving more than 1,000 homes and Tredegar Primary School. The Nurture Farm is part of the wider community benefits delivered through the scheme, demonstrating our long-term commitment to combining sustainable energy with meaningful social value.
The facilities will now be used by 430 children as well as shared with pupils from other schools and the wider community.
