Chenies Primary School- Slow the Flow

In addition to educational activities, the project explored practical, physical changes to improve water usage and reduce flood risks. The goal was to create a positive impact not only within the school but also across the wider community.

Water efficiency installation

With extra funding from Affinity Water, a water audit was held at the school. By analysing the water use, H20IQ were able to establish where water savings could be made. As a result, tap inserts and flush-saving devices were installed, leading to a daily water saving of 137 litres. 

New pond

One area identified as a significant opportunity for improvement was the school pond, which was overgrown, leaking, and consuming large amounts of water. Staff were frequently using a hose to refill it, making it unsustainable. There was a strong desire to rejuvenate the pond—not only to enhance conditions for local wildlife but also to create a valuable educational resource for students. Additionally, new, safer fencing was needed to ensure the area was secure.

Thanks to funding from the Chenies Parent and Teacher Association and the generous support of volunteers from both the school and the wider community, a brand-new pond was successfully installed.

Education programme

The upper years at the school have been treated to 6 weeks of education sessions. This has included an introduction to Chalk streams and their pressures, learning about Sustainable Drainage Systems and designing their own rain planter, a walk to the river to follow the flow, science experiences to investigate infiltration and surface run off and even a Lego robot building lesson (funded by Affinity Water).

They have still more to do as the artwork they have done will be turned into an advice leaflet and they are going to present what they have learned at an assembly with special guests invited!

Reaching the community

It is important that the work done at the school spreads awareness in the community and at home. To support this, students have created informative leaflets to distribute and will be hosting an assembly to share what they’ve learned.

The Chilterns Chalk Streams Project has also been engaging with the local village through the community newsletter and the annual produce show. Some “water saving rebel” scarecrows even appeared outside the school gates to spread the message and spark conversations about water conservation.

Rain planters

Garden designers have been commissioned to design and install rain planters at the school.

These are sustainable drainage systems which take rainwater from the roof and gutters and feed into a planter “slowing the flow” before reaching the drains. Plants chosen will be both drought tolerant and resilient to heavy rainfall, ensuring they thrive in varying conditions.  Not only will the planters help reduce the risk of flooding, but they will also add a beautiful and educational feature to the school grounds.

We look forward to these being installed in Spring 2026.

(Photo of rain planter courtesy of the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust)