Strand on the Green and Kew House joint project

Parents at Kew House School have raised money for an outdoor play area and funding for a specially trained therapy dog at Strand Schools’ Swan Centre, as part of a collaboration between the two local schools.

The Swan Centre at Strand School, supports local children with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

By working together with the team at Strand Schools and with the enthusiastic support and kind donations of parents, The Friends of Kew House School designed, commissioned and funded the transformation of a dreary terrace into an imaginative, nature-inspired, outdoor play area. The playground was conceptualised by Hammersmith-based, landscape designer Nicola Lesbirel and constructed by educational playground specialists BeestonJones; it opened officially on Friday, November 17, 2017.

The Friends of Kew House also funded the purchase and training of cockapoo Otis, a specially trained therapy dog, who is much loved by the children at the Swan centre.

Says Vanessa Townsend, Headmistress of Strand on the Green Infant and Nursery School, “ We are thrilled with Otis and our new play area and are committed to growing the relationship between our two schools.

"Working together on this project has been of significant benefit to all involved. KHS students have experienced volunteering and the transformative power of social action first hand. Time spent at The Swan Centre counts towards The Duke of Edinburgh accreditation, individuals in Society and Art, and offers work experience opportunities for the students."

Says Mark Hudson, Headmaster at Kew House School, “The collaboration between our two schools and the willingness of The Friends of Kew House School to support our efforts in these community activities helps the school and is a rewarding experience for our students.”

November 17, 2017