Toy boxes installed at beaches along coastline
Prior Pursglove CollegeA group of students has created a trio of beachside toy boxes to reduce plastic waste along the coast and help make visits cleaner and more fun.
The boxes, designed by the Endeavour SEN department at Prior Pursglove College in Guisborough, have been placed on beaches in Skinningrove, Redcar and Saltburn.
A coastal litter-pick motivated the students to find a way to reduce plastic waste, and the three boxes have been filled with toys gathered by them during the clean-up.
Teacher Helen Beadnall said the students, who are aged between 16 and 24, had been full of creativity, and she described the process as "inspiring".
"They have so many ideas and have turned them into direct action to benefit our local communities," said Beadnall.
"The response from the public has been so heartwarming.
"The students have learned so many skills, and their confidence is sky-high," she added.
The toy box initiative forms part of the 'Blue Influencer Project', which aims to help build a connection between young people and nature.
The beach boxes have been hand-painted by the students in bright colours in order to stand out and encourage beachgoers to check out what's inside.
Prior Pursglove College"Working with the students on the Blue Influencer project, and seeing the difference they are making to the local beaches, has been incredible to see and be part of," said teaching assistant Jade Rogers.
Student Tasnia Baig said she was very proud: "I have learned that I can protect the sea that I love."
Fellow student Callum Blagg said: "I like to protect all the animals - I know my litter-picking helped."
