DETERMINED individuals from Doonfoot Primary School won a 'Special Commendation' for their impressive work.

Hundreds of local school children descended on Dumfries House estate for an engineering and science challenge recently.

As part of a competition entitled The Full Cycle – The Science of Plants, pupils from more than ten Ayrshire schools were tasked with producing a model garden layout demonstrating nature’s cycles, such as the seasons and the water cycle.

Mrs Caroline Connell, head teacher at Doonfoot Primary School, said: “Our young garden designers were so excited to get the special commendation. 

"They worked really hard on the project and learned so much, not only about nature but also our own impact upon the seasons. 

"They worked on the project as part of their autism inclusion programme which puts young people of all abilities on an equal footing.

"The challenge really captured their imaginations and their energy was infectious. I would like to congratulate class teacher and STEM co-ordinator Jen McEwan and everyone else involved in this inspirational challenge. 

"They have all put in enormous effort from beginning to end, so I’m delighted that they have received this wonderful recognition."

Following judging of the entries, pupils then used the superb educational facilities at Dumfries House to participate in a series of workshops on the themes of outdoor education, gardening, health and wellbeing, and STEM subjects.

Karen Alexander, Acting Head of Education at Dumfries House said: "As an organisation that is proud of its community partnerships, we were delighted at the participation of so many talented primary school pupils at our recent challenge event. 

"They produced some innovative and well-thought-out designs that caught the imagination of staff here, and their enthusiasm and appetite for the workshops was very rewarding for those who ran them."