A newly built memorial garden at St George’s Church of England Primary School in Stamford will offer young students an area of calm and reflection, and somewhere to remember their friend Milan, who tragically passed away in a car accident last September.
The loss of Vivien Radocz and her son Milan had a profound impact on the community, especially Milan’s classmates. As such, Stamford College Bricklaying and Construction students, led by Lecturer Tom Deignan, offered their labour and skillset free of charge to the build of the Milan Peace Garden Project.
Tom shared, “In offering their hand in this project, Stamford College students have been able to refine their practical skills in a real-life setting, but they can also take pride in the fact that they’re contributing to a poignant memorial that will benefit local people. They should be very proud of themselves”.
Tom also engaged with local employers, such as Allison Homes, Messenger, Travis Perkins, Buildbase and Countryside Partnerships, who have kindly donated materials and plant machinery to support the build. As Milan took a keen interest in nature, the design incorporates four raised flower beds, for which the £2500 worth of bricks donated by Allison Homes, were used. A representative of the company shared, “At Allison Homes, we aim to support the local community wherever we can, and knew the peace garden was a project we had to aid with. We work very closely with Stamford College as many of our apprentices study there, and believe it is really special that the students have been involved with such an important build. This experience is one both us and the students will be able to look back on in years to come with pride, and we hope that the pupils and staff at St George’s Primary School find this garden to be extremely beneficial.”
Earlier this month, schoolchildren took part in an emotional service to officially open the garden. Fiona Griffiths, Executive Headteacher of the Aspire Federation, comprised of St. George’s Church of England Primary School and William Hildyard Church of England Primary and Nursery School, shared her appreciation, “We are overwhelmed by the support of the whole community, and in particular those who have given their time, effort and materials for our Peace Garden. Amongst others, Stamford College Construction students, led by Tom Deignan, have laboured on the school site to build an area in which children can sit and reflect. Thank you very much”.
The College are immensely grateful to Allison Homes for their continued support as an Inspire Education Group Industry Skills Academy sponsor. It is community collaborations such as these between students, staff and local employers that eternalise the memory of Milan, and his mother Vivien. Inspire Education Group sends it condolences to the Radocz’ loved ones.
