As part of the Green Cool Schools GROW Europe project, Colegio Basauri Ikastetxea, in Basauri, has built a wooden pergola with benches to create a greener, more welcoming place to rest in the school playground. At the heart of this initiative is the active involvement of the students: this is a space created by them, with them and for them.
The design was decided jointly by teacher Aitor Uraga and the students, who then carried out the entire construction process together. From sanding and varnishing the wood to screwing the pieces together and securing the structure in concrete, every stage was completed by the students and their teacher. Their work, care and commitment turned a shared idea into a lasting addition to the school grounds.
The pergola took shape gradually throughout the 2025–2026 school year and was installed in June 2026. Working on the project over several months gave students the opportunity to experience the effort and cooperation involved in building something for their school community. They were involved in much more than the finishing touches: they helped make the decisions and built the structure with their own hands.
The next stage, planned for September and October 2026, will bring greenery to the pergola through pots and climbing plants. Students will once again take an active role, helping transform the wooden structure into a living space. As the plants grow, they will provide shade and help create a more pleasant setting where students can relax and spend time together.
Beyond the physical transformation of the playground, the project has helped students recognise their own ability to contribute to a greener world. Building this space has made a simple but meaningful idea tangible: small actions matter, and we can all play a part in improving our surroundings. At Basauri Ikastetxea, that process has begun with our students’ ideas, teamwork and their own hands.
Photos: Colegio Basauri Ikastetxea