A Gateshead secondary school for pupils with special educational needs has received a £1,000 donation towards a new trim trail for the students.

Hill Top Secondary School in Leam Lane, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, was awarded the funds through the Persimmon Homes Community Champions scheme, which supports up to 64 good causes every month.

Louise Hewison, a teaching assistant at the school, said: “All students have a statement of special educational needs and don't get the opportunity to go to parks due to their high anxieties, behavioural difficulties, and sometimes due to their parents' fears that their child is being judged by others.

“At present we are trying to establish a playground that our students have within school grounds that they can use to challenge themselves, and we want to inspire our young people to get on and play.”

“Beyond the physical benefits, playing on Trim Trails equipment helps children to challenge themselves, deal with risk and develop resilience – and to promote self-regulation, this will also build confidence self-esteem, independence and pride these are all essential life skills in and out of the classroom, and after they leave Hill Top.”

“We are delighted to have been chosen as a Community Champion – very donation takes us a little bit closer to achieving our target.”

The Persimmon Homes Community Champions initiative seeks to support grassroots groups and charities in areas where the company is building. Persimmon Homes North East makes two donations of up to £1,000 every month to worthy causes.

Chris Curry, managing director for Persimmon Homes North East, said: “We are committed to supporting the communities in which we build, and we thought the Hill Top School project was an excellent cause.”

For more information on Community Champions or to apply visit: www.persimmonhomes.com/community-champions.