A SCHOOL'S own Ground Force team has given part of its site a new lease of life.

Youngsters from Sir Charles Parsons School, Walker, Newcastle, have transformed the overgrown quadrangle into a sun trap, filled with herbs and aromatic plants.

Old bushes have been dug out or pruned and bark has been laid where a large hammock will be situated.

Adding to the restful atmosphere, the centre of the quad has been turfed and a seating area has been repainted by the youngsters.

Year Ten pupils have made mosaics for the garden and the walls.

Assistant headteacher Monica Oliver said: "The work completed would rival that of the Ground Force team and we plan more work.

"We have made a great start to a project, which will take up much of this term and the next year or more.''

Most pupils at the school have severe learning difficulties