THE only specialist school for children with cerebral palsy in London is celebrating after receiving a grant to build its own sensory garden.

The London Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy, in Muswell Hill, has been awarded a Gannett Grant of £2,463 to install the garden in spring next year.

The grant, awarded by the parent company of Newsquest, which owns the Haringey Independent, will pay for the whole garden and will be a huge benefit to all the children who use the centre and school, according to the head of education.

Michael Simms said: “It's really good news, a major aspect of our teaching revolves around multi-sensory learning and this allows the children to be in touch with nature without leaving the school environment.

“The school's ethos is to inspire the children with cerebral palsy to develop their identity and self esteem, and to achieve their full potential, and the garden encapsulates that.”

The youngsters, who range from nursery age up to 11-years-old, will take part in creating the garden at the centre, helping with design and installation of all the elements.

It will be completely accessible to disabled children with raised flower beds to help them experience closely the sights, smells, and textures of the environment.

Mr Simms added: “It will also provide an opportunity for quality reflection and space to enjoy the company of friends.

“It will be the inspiration for creative expression and creative writing, and we will look at the maths of nature in terms of the shapes and sizes of things.”

The centre is the only Government-approved school for children with cerebral palsy in London, with around 60 attending each week for therapy and education.

Many of the pupils also have neurological damage, learning disabilities, and limited communication skills, and it is hoped the garden will be a major aid in helping pupils to develop their own capabilities.