A CHEMICAL company is helping youngsters develop their social skills by improving a school's learning environment.

Dow (Wilton) has donated £4,000 to Grangetown Primary School to help revamp its enclosed garden.

The area, when completed by the end of next month, will include a stage and seating area with an amphitheatre design, a wildlife trail and other features to encourage children to develop their talking and listening skills.

A similar area for the school's younger children was created two years ago.

Its success triggered an appeal for funds towards the £8,000 cost of a second area for older pupils.

Headteacher Carl Faulkner said: "Our school sees itself as an integral part of the community and we are delighted when local employers, such as Dow, are able to support us in this way.

"The garden will enrich our curriculum and help us provide new experiences for our children in a calm and attractive environment."

Mr Faulkner and three children from the school also visited the Wilton site for a tour of the plant and to receive the cheque.

Malcolm Wilson, site leader for Dow, said: "We were only too pleased to help. The ability to communicate effectively is vitally important in all walks of life and one that you're never too young - or old - to learn."