A HOUSING development with the motto ‘Happy Homes from Little Acorns Grow’ is giving a whole class of primary school children the chance to actually see that happen.
The Acorns at Spennymoor is not only donating an oak tree to North Park Primary and Nursery School but also gave pupils the chance to win a trip to Thorp Perrow Arboretum for their whole class.
Based on the theme “from acorn to oak tree”, North Park pupils were invited to draw trees representing their dream futures.
More than 150 pupils from years one to six took part in the competition – and the standard of entries was so high that two winners were chosen.
Alfie Spragg and Darryl Fothergill, both eight, were named as joint winners and will enjoy a trip with their year four class to the Victorian arboretum in Bedale, North Yorkshire.
The Acorns is a joint venture by consortium Maple Oak Homes. Part of the £100m DurhamGate development, it comprises 70 two, three and four bedroom family homes.
Maple Oak Homes brings together the best minds in housing development, Spennymoor-based Partner Construction and property developer Impec Investments in partnership with Buccleuch Property.
Leigh Cresswell, managing director of Partner Construction, said: “Picking one winner was a real challenge because there were so many fantastic entries – so in the end we chose two.
“We thought the way Darryl incorporated his dream home into the tree design was really creative – particularly the swimming pool on a tree branch!
“And we loved the ambition in Alfie’s drawing, which included life goals like going to university, climbing a mountain and never giving up.”
In addition to the school trip, a selection of the children’s artwork will also be displayed in pride of place around The Acorns’ show homes.
Grace Mackay, marketing executive at Partner Construction, said: “We’re delighted to see The Acorns becoming such an important part of the local community.
“With lots of young couples and families moving into our homes, it’s important to us to forge strong links with Spennymoor’s schools and groups.
“North Park is close to The Acorns and we’re sure our homeowners will be sending their children there both now and in the future.”
Patricia Monk, head teacher at North Park, said: “It has been great to take part in the competition.
“We strive hard to ensure our pupils regularly engage in activities in the local community and are always happy to work alongside community groups and businesses to foster that engagement.
“It is especially pleasing when the pupils’ enthusiasm is rewarded with such a fantastic opportunity for them – both the children and teachers are so excited about the trip!”
The Acorns has proved popular with house hunters since its launch last year and is quickly establishing itself as part of the Spennymoor community.
For more information about The Acorns, visit www.the-acorns.com.