A team of apprentices who spent half term building a gazebo at a school for children with sensory and physical needs have returned to meet the pupils who are already benefitting from their work.

Callum Frazer, Ryan Tebble and Sam Crisp, from Britvic Soft Drinks, completed the community project at The Clare School, Norwich, as part of their apprenticeship.

The school caters for pupils aged three to 19. Some have photosenstitive epilepsy, meaning they have to wear sun glasses when outside, and particularly benefit from the gazebo.

Teacher Rebecca Wicks said: 'We were delighted to be chosen to benefit from the project and have really enjoyed working with all of the volunteers.

'We decided that a gazebo would be a lovely idea, to offer some much-needed shade in the summer and a nice quiet space for small groups to go to for reading, sharing news and chatting.

'The apprentices went away, produced drawings and plans and eventually we settled on a design that we all liked. They sourced materials and assistance from local contractors RG Carters & Fabcon Engineering prior to the build.

'During the October half term work started in earnest, with the apprentices all giving up a week of their time to complete the project.

'They were helped by RG Carter who donated two days of their time to help with the ground works. All the manpower, tools and materials for the gazebo were provided by Britvic Soft Drinks, which was amazing.'

She added: 'It happened over half-term, and the students did not know about it. When they came back after the holiday they saw it. They have all visited it and they are amazed.'

Some of the pupils who are learning skills to help them be more independent have been making cups of tea, and taking them to the structure, where they sit and socialise.

The children made a special card of thanks for the apprentices.

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