An outdoor space, launched Wednesday 16th July at Ebbw Fawr Learning Community; has been transformed into a vibrant mini golf course—thanks to the creativity of students who were previously disengaged with school, the support of local organisations, and a successful community funding bid led by a year 10 student.
The project had a deeper purpose: to re-engage learners who had disengaged from school. It began when Brooklyn Jaricha, a year 10 pupil at Ebbw Fawr, took the initiative to apply for a community project grant from GAVO Wales. With support from classmates, Brooklyn filmed the proposed site and submitted a compelling application. Within a month, the bid was successful—securing the funding needed to bring the vision to life.
With funding in place, the school partnered with Men’s Den Blaenau Gwent – a local community group that provides creative spaces to reduce loneliness and isolation. Volunteers from Men’s Den worked alongside students pursuing a King’s Trust Personal Development and Employability qualification (known at the school as Work Skills) to design and build the course. Under supervision, students took part in hands-on outdoor activities, including measuring, cutting, and assembling materials – developing practical construction and teamwork skills that will benefit them in future careers.
Mr. Walters, who leads the Work Skills programme, guided the students through the process. One student, Adam, shared how the group created multiple course designs, took precise measurements, and helped order supplies—gaining valuable experience in planning and construction.
The Art Department also played a key role, designing and painting colourful signage that added a creative flair to the final course.
Tai Calon Housing Association provided crucial early support, donating staff time and resources to help build the outdoor shelter that now anchors the space. Their contribution laid the foundation for what will soon become a thriving hub for outdoor learning.
The official launch took place on Wednesday 16th July at Ebbw Fawr Secondary School, where students, staff, and community partners gathered to celebrate the achievement.
At the launch event, Dr. Scott Reasons, Head of School, shared:
“Quite simply, we wouldn’t have been able to make this all happen without the partnership with Tai Calon and Men’s Den, and the unsung heroes across the school who provided supervision and support. I’m incredibly thankful and proud that, as a community, we’ve achieved something truly special.”
David Finch, Trustee of Men’s Shed Blaenau Gwent, added:
“We’ve been involved with Ebbw Fawr School for a few months now creating a crazy golf course. When we say we created it—we didn’t. We only gave guidance, help, and instruction to the young boys who weren’t coming to school. The idea was to get them back into school—and it worked. They designed it, built it, painted it—and now they’re turning up more often, which is brilliant.”
Looking ahead, the school plans to open the mini golf course to the wider community, hosting events and offering access to local families. Internally, a reward system is being developed where pupils can exchange positive behaviour points for time on the course—ensuring the space continues to inspire and motivate.
