Staff and supporters of an Ipswich school for children with learning disabilities are preparing to take part in an open water swim to raise funds for a sensory garden in memory of a former pupil.

The 15-strong team from Thomas Wolsey School, Defoe Road, will take on the Great East Swim, at Alton Water, in June with the aim of raising £5,000 for the outdoor space.

The idea for the initiative came from Anna Hutchings whose son, George, used to attend the school.

George, who suffered from cerebral palsy, died in March last year but Anna believes the garden will be a fitting tribute to his memory.

She said: “When George died unexpectedly we, his family, wanted to give something back to the fantastic Thomas Wolsey School that supported George’s needs so well.

“It seemed very apt to create a sensory outdoor classroom for George’s class to remember him by.

“The stimulation created by sounds, smells and texture is a great way for all children to explore their surroundings.”

The team, called Team TW, is made up of staff, families of pupils and members of the public.

Vicky Platt, a teacher at the school, will be among the group taking on the challenge.

She said: “I’m doing the swim because I want to help raise money for the garden. I’m very excited but very nervous.”

Plans for the garden include large folding doors from the classroom leading straight outside which will allow easy wheelchair access and shelter from the wind and rain.

There are also many sensory elements planned for the garden.

You can donate funds to the group’s cause by texting GGDN99 to 70070 and contributing either £1, £3, £5 or £10.

Alternatively, you can donate to the team’s cause online by visiting justgiving.com/Team-TW