Ed Sheeran and Tru7-funded disability-friendly playground at Ipswich's Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy opened today

The new academic year at a school in Ipswich got off to a great start with the opening of a new playground for those with special needs.

Unveiled today at Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy, the playground was partially funded through the proceeds of the Ed Sheeran: Made in Suffolk Legacy Auction from 2020.

The auction, conducted by the superstar's parents, raised £506,000 and was followed by a £100,000 contribution by Suffolk businessman Guy Nicholls, the founder of Tru7.

Its opening was attended by donors and partners including Suffolk-born musician Brian Eno, and saw a live performance from students.

The playground was opened nearly two years after initial bidding on the site concluded.

The project was led by Suffolk-based charity GeeWizz, which offers support to children and young adults with special needs.

Mr Nicholls said: “When approached by GeeWizz, we signed up as headline sponsors without hesitation.

“During a global pandemic, or indeed at any moment in time, providing a safe environment for vulnerable children to learn and play outdoors was a total no-brainer.

"It’s been such an incredible journey for all my team, not only through sponsorship, but through active hands on support by preparing the groundworks and providing building materials.

He added: "It is a legacy we are all very proud to be a part of.”

The playground features increased accessibility for those in wheelchairs and has been enhanced with sensory features, designed to stimulate the senses.

This includes beach huts, wildflower gardens and covered outdoor learning areas.

It was designed by Bury St Edmunds-based landscaper Mia Witham and has been tailored for the students at the school.

All students are between the ages of 3 and 16, and have a variety of special or increased needs and learning difficulties.

Suffolk-based Pro-Scape was the primary contractor for the project.

However, other regional firms like Hudson Group, Clarkes of Walsham and Barcham Trees as well as Suffolk One and many volunteers including staff and parents also offered support.

Gina Long MBE, the founder of GeeWizz, said: "This is the largest project we have ever supported as a charity, and we are therefore so delighted to see it open to the children and wider community.

“The generosity of all those involved in this project, from Ed, John and Imogen Sheeran, through to everyone who has donated their time and energies – has been nothing short of inspiring."

"I would like to convey my heartfelt thanks to all of our generous supporters. We hope that this playground will provide a brilliant space for the Academy's students for years to come."

Musician Brian Eno revealed he donated a signed photograph captured during lockdown in 2020.

It sold for £1,260 and was auctioned alongside 200 other items, including Ed Sheeran's handwritten lyrics to 'Perfect'.

Eno said he was delighted to help support the school and explained the origins of the image.

He added: “The image was taken whilst on a walk with my brother on a dramatic July day on Benacre Beach, where the sea is gnawing away at the land. Every year the beach moves a bit further west, and every year Benacre gets smaller.”

Staff and students of the Academy also thanked everyone involved with the creation of the new playground.

They hope the new set makes a difference for both the children and their families.