Children at a school in Newham will be growing plants and vegetables thanks to the generous donation of a greenhouse.

Even the staff at The Royal Docks Community School in Custom House are keen to grow green fingers as part of the curriculum’s horticultural studies.

The greenhouse was bought with money donated by The Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers and B&Q.

Carol Ellis, a Special Educational Needs teacher, came up with the idea of a greenhouse to allow the children with disabilities to experience growing things. She also wanted them to have contact with nature as many children live in urban areas and do not often get a chance. Carol Ellis runs the horticultural group for 12 children with Special Educational Needs with fellow teacher Gary Thorne.

The Grand Opening of the greenhouse took place on last Tuesday (June 21) when the greenhouse and plants were presented to students at the school by Andrew Overton from The Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers. He also gave the students and staff some tips on planting and bedding

Ruth Martin, headteacher, said: “The children will learn a lot from growing their own vegetables and plants and are very excited. It will also bring enjoyment to pupils at the school for years to come.”

A spokeswoman for the school said the children are planning to sow vegetables, herbs and plants and use them towards the end of term in a food tasting session so that they become aware of the difference in flavour when food is fresh and home grown. And with the credit crunch at the back of everyone’s minds, growing your own can be a great way to cut costs.

She said the donation of extra wide doors from B & Q, allowing wheelchair access, twill allow as many pupils as possible to have the opportunity to take part in gardening.