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Petty Pool is raising £13 million to develop a new outdoor education centre and SEND centre of excellence in Cheshire.

Our journey has begun, but there’s still a long way to go! 

After years of planning, we’re delighted to share that work on Project Learn Hive has begun! You’ll notice around our site that the preliminary work is has already started, ahead of breaking ground Autumn 2026. 

Project Learn Hive is our Capital Development Project,  which will see the redevelopment of the Petty Pool site in Sandiway, delivering brand new facilities, ensuring young people are getting the very best outdoor education experiences and vocational training and will go on to thrive in their chosen life path.

These developments are designed to enhance education whilst preserving our natural environment, ensuring Petty Pool continues to be a special place for learners, staff and the wider community.

The build is taking place across two phases to include a new residential outdoor centre benefiting 6,000 school children every year and a new community hub, followed by phase two – a new college campus for up to 160 young people who have learning disabilities and difficulties, expected to commence 2027.

About Project Learn Hive

How you can be part of our journey

Every little helps! All donations large and small are gratefully received. You can donate at the top right of this page!

 

Corporate Supporters – Can you nominate us as your charity of the year, donate, fundraise, sponsor an event, or volunteer?

Fundraisers – Organise an event, sponsored challenge or volunteer to help at one of our events. You don’t have to run a marathon, but we’d love it if you did!

Join our events – Don’t fancy running your own event? Join one of ours! From golf days, to lunches, to our Spring Fair, there’s something for everyone!

Grants and Trusts – Does our mission fit with your giving priorities? If so, please contact us to find out more about our work and appeal.

Parents, Carers & Supporters – Help to spread the word far and wide!

FAQ's about Project Learn Hive

What is your Vision for the Project?

We are committed to developing the Petty Pool campus in a way that:

  • Supports our learners, members and visitors with the best possible learning environments.

  • Protects and enhances the woodland

  • Respects the local community

  • Promotes sustainability and biodiversity

How are you considering the Woodland Management ?

As part of the development programme, we are improving the long-term management of our 40 acres of woodland.

This includes:

  • Planting hundreds of new native trees and shrubs.

  • Managing invasive species such as rhododendron.

  • Controlling bracken to allow natural woodland regeneration.

  • Creating more diverse habitats for wildlife.

These works will help restore the woodland’s ecological health and support wildlife for years to come.

What about public access to the Petty Pool Woodland?

Petty Pool’s woodland remains an important green space for the local community.

Where possible we will continue to allow permissive public access, while ensuring the site remains safe for learners and visitors.

Occasionally, short-term path closures may be required during woodland or construction work. These will always be temporary and clearly signposted.

Updates will be posted on this page.

Make a donation

Please donate today and help young people with learning disabilities gain skills, grow in confidence and move towards more independent and fulfilling futures.

Make a donation