An innovative mobile classroom is on the way for Somerset Council’s Chard Reservoir Local Nature Reserve thanks to a £1,500 grant from the Tesco Stronger Starts scheme.

The grant, applied for by the Chard Reservoir Volunteer Group and chosen by Chard Tesco shoppers through the blue disc scheme, will fund a mobile woodland classroom and support environmental activities for local children at the reserve.

Led by Somerset Council’s Community Ranger Edd Chilcott, the new mobile classroom project will allow a fresh programme of outdoor education sessions from next spring.

Constructed with rope, fencing, and a parachute tarpaulin roof, the new innovative mobile classroom will provide shelter, warmth, and creative space for children to appreciate and learn about nature at Chard Reservoir. Its portability means it can be set up in various places so students can explore and experience different areas of the reservoir.

The fund will also help supply binoculars, outdoor cooking supplies, hammocks, and tables to go with the resources already held at the reservoir.

Councillor Graham Oakes, Somerset Council’s Executive Lead Member for Public Health, Environment and Climate Change, said:

This project is a fantastic example of how community support and corporate partnerships can enhance local environmental education.

The new mobile classroom will not only provide a unique learning experience for children, but also promote greater accessibility and engagement with our natural spaces. All of which helps Somerset become greener and more sustainable.

We are grateful to Tesco for their generous support and look forward to seeing the positive impact this initiative will have on the Chard community.

Head Ranger at Chard Reservoir, Hannah Stanton added:

We are incredibly grateful to Tesco Stronger Starts for their generous award. The team at Chard Reservoir is excited to get this project off the ground for 2025.

We hope this funding can kickstart the foundations of a bright future of outdoor education at the site. Special thanks also go to Nicky, Local Community Champion at Chard Tesco for her support.

John Middleton, Chair of Chard Reservoir Volunteer Group said:

A very big thank you to the local community for supporting the Tesco Stronger Starts programme and the group’s project to provide much-needed outdoor classroom facilities at the nature reserve.

Thanks to Tesco’s support and the dedication of the Chard Reservoir Volunteer Group made this project possible, Somerset Council will be able to offer these sessions to participants who may not be able to attend on an ordinary basis, opening up more opportunities and accessibility to people in the Chard community.

Claire de Silva, Tesco UK Head of Communities and Local Media, said:

Helping schools and children’s groups access outdoor space and resources is vitally important in getting children a stronger start in life.

Tesco’s Stronger Starts – previously Tesco Bags of Help and Tesco Community Grants – has already provided over £115 million to more than 65,000 projects across Britain. Funding is available to community groups and charities looking to fund local projects that bring benefits to communities.

To find out more visit tescoplc.com/strongerstarts.