KETTERING SCHOOL’S ECO-COMMITTEE TAKES FLIGHT WITH DEVELOPER’S DONATION

To coincide with the RSPB’s Big School’s Birdwatch (8th January to 19th February), leading homebuilder Barratt Homes has donated nest-boxes to Hayfield Cross C of E Primary School.

The RSPB's Big Schools' Birdwatch is a wildlife project held in schools across the UK. The idea behind the birdwatch is to count the number of birds pupils can see at school and submit their results. This important research helps create a picture of how birds are faring across the UK.

Located near the Barratt Homes’ Bertone Gardens development, Hayfield Cross C of E Primary School received two RSPB nest-boxes suitable for a variety of bird species. With this donation the developer intends to attract more birds to the school, making the count more engaging for its pupils.

Laura Hitchcock, Teaching Assistant at Hayfield Cross C of E Primary School, said: “Our Eco Committee were so pleased to receive these nest-boxes. They are on a mission to replace the biodiversity which was lost to build our wonderful school and our first goal is to attract more birds.

“With the nest-boxes and the addition of new trees around the perimeter of the school grounds, we are looking forward to welcoming our first feathered residents!”

Barratt Homes has partnered with the RSPB since 2014 to show how new homes, and indeed homeowners, can help nature and support wildlife. The agreement was the first of its kind in the UK and was created to look for opportunities to boost natural habitats at developments across the country.

Will Phair, Sales Director at Barratt Homes Cambridgeshire, said: “It was a pleasure to offer Hayfield Cross C of E Primary School the nest-boxes to help with the RSPB’s Big School’s Birdwatch.

“As a leading housebuilder, we know that home is where the heart is and that’s true for all kinds of residents, human or otherwise!

“We hope the donation of these nest-boxes will provide a new home for a variety of bird species and offer pupils the opportunity to get a better look at their feathered friends.”

Bertone Gardens is steadily growing into a vibrant community in the new neighbourhood of Hanwood Park that will feature play areas, sports facilities and local shops, as well as providing over 280 acres of green open space.