A SCHOOL that received a garden makeover as part of a good deeds day last year says the results have provided fresh opportunities for pupils.

Teachers at Oak Lodge School, in Heath View, East Finchley, were delighted with the work of the staff from the Times & Independent newspapers who volunteered their time to rejuvenate their run-down garden.

The special school was the winner of a Newsquest competition to find a worthy Mitzvah Day project, and a year on, the area has bloomed into a haven for the 11 to 19-year-olds who have a range of learning difficulties.

The tired site was converted into a usable space featuring a pond, plants and seating, and has since become a habitat for all varieties of insects and animals.

Deputy headteacher Teresa Ellis said: “It is a lot more accessible to all the students in the school including those children who are in wheelchairs.

“It has meant we have been able to use the area for vocational studies including animal care and hopefully horticulture.

“It's been an extension to the school which has improved the sensory environment and that is important for students with autism and additional needs.”

A pair of rabbits have been housed in the garden and students are encouraged to use the space to enjoy themselves as well as learn.

Lian DeSousa, 11, said: “I like coming up here and playing with the rabbits.

“I sit down and rest, and take care of the rabbits.”

Jolene Payne, 13, said: “I like it because we have the rabbits.

“I just come up to relax and think and have some quiet time.”

Mitzvah Day was founded as a multifaith event encouraging participants to donate their time rather than money to help make a difference in their community.

Staff at the Times Series will again be volunteering to help a worthy project in the borough, and all suggestions can be submitted to assistant editor Francine Wolfisz at fwolfisz@london.newsquest.co.uk or calling 020 8359 5921.

The closing date for entries is Friday, November 5.