Cornwall Charity Transforms Outdoor Learning for Neurodivergent Children

A Redruth-based charity dedicated to nature-based learning for neurodivergent children has received support from South West Water for its outdoor education project, helping to create an immersive wildlife pond experience.

A Space to Explore and Learn

Harmony Permaculture provides safe, inclusive spaces where children can explore, play, and learn in ways that suit their individual needs. With support from South West Water’s Neighbourhood Fund, the charity has built a wildlife pond to help children engage with nature while learning about biodiversity and local ecosystems.

Since October, children have taken an active role in designing and constructing the pond, adding bridges, rafts, and insect habitats. The hands-on experience has encouraged teamwork, creativity, and environmental awareness while providing a peaceful space for reflection.

One of the charity’s team members highlighted the impact of the new learning space:

“The pond has become a central part of our outdoor learning space. The children have really taken ownership of it, inventing new features and finding different ways to interact with the water and wildlife. Recently, many of them have simply enjoyed sitting by the pond, quietly watching and listening to the sounds of nature.”

Supporting Alternative Education

Harmony Permaculture’s approach focuses on offering children the freedom to learn in a way that feels natural to them, providing an alternative to traditional classroom environments. The new pond is now a key feature of this outdoor space, offering both educational and therapeutic benefits.

Ketan Hindocha, South West Water’s Customer Director, said:

“As a business that works every day to protect and enhance the natural environment across our region, it’s inspiring to see charities which help connect people with nature and we’re pleased to play a part in helping this happen.”

South West Water’s Community Commitment

South West Water’s Neighbourhood Fund was set up to support grassroots projects that strengthen communities and improve lives across the region. Over the past year, the fund has provided £100,000 in support to 54 charities, benefiting more than 41,000 people.

To find out more about the fund, visit South West Water’s website.