ST PETER’S School in Wrecclesham welcomed a special former pupil to open its new peace garden.

Paralympic gold medallist Rachel Morris was joined by the(excited) wider school community for the grand opening on May 24, and praised the school for placing an emphasis on mental health.

The sensory garden area is in a quiet corner and is designed to give all members of the school community a calm area to relax.

Rachel, who won hand-cycling gold at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, bronze at London 2012 and rowing gold at the 2016 Rio Games, said: “This is a wonderful initiative which will give everyone (pupils and adults) a place to be themselves.

“Schools do a lot for physical health, but it is so important that schools think about well-being and mental health. This quiet area can be enjoyed by everyone.”

Sarah Dunning, headteacher, added: “There is a big national focus on addressing well-being and helping pupils to develop resilience. We all experience times when things don’t go as we’d hoped and we have to develop the skills to overcome these hurdles.

“The Peace Garden has been designed to be a quiet place for reflection and calm.

“Our focus at St Peter’s is on the development of the whole child. Our aim is for pupils to leave St Peter’s as well- rounded young people who not only reach their academic potential, but who also empathise and understand their contribution to the wider world.

“The garden has been planted to appeal to the senses, but we also hope that it will attract insects. We have a strong focus on the natural environment and outdoor learning at St Peter’s.”