To improve flood resilience across East Sussex schools by introducing sustainable drainage solutions that manage surface water more effectively, reduce pressure on existing sewer networks and create greener, more engaging outdoor spaces.

The project also aimed to bring learning beyond the classroom, helping pupils understand the importance of water management, biodiversity and climate resilience while inspiring them to become advocates for greener, more resilient communities.

Meristem provided a comprehensive service, from initial site surveys and drainage calculations through to the design, fabrication, installation and maintenance of SuDS features.

The programme incorporated a range of solutions tailored to each school's individual requirements, including SuDS Planters, rain gardens and slow-release water butts. Alongside the physical installations, Meristem worked with schools and pupils to develop engaging outdoor spaces that combine sustainable drainage with education, play and biodiversity.

Pupils were involved from the early design stages, with opportunities to contribute ideas for their school grounds before taking part in practical planting and nature workshops.

A combination of SuDS features was designed and installed to manage rainfall at source, either by temporarily storing and slowly releasing water or disconnecting surface water from the combined sewer network altogether.

Pupil engagement was central to the approach. Children were invited to contribute ideas during the design process and participate in nature workshops, where they could get hands-on with planting and discover more about the environment. The installations were designed to encourage curiosity, with opportunities to observe insects, explore planting and follow how water moves through the different features, even during rainfall.

East Sussex has experienced significant flooding in recent years, with intense rainfall overwhelming existing drainage networks and causing surface water to accumulate across school grounds. In some cases, flooding has extended into classrooms and forced schools to close or restrict access to parts of their buildings and outdoor spaces.

With conventional drainage systems struggling to cope with increasing volumes of rainfall, there was a need for more sustainable, nature-based solutions that could manage water at source and reduce pressure on existing sewer networks.

However, the challenge extended beyond drainage. Solutions needed to work within busy school environments, creating practical and resilient spaces that were also safe, accessible and engaging for children. There was an opportunity to turn a flooding challenge into a wider educational experience, helping pupils understand how water moves through their environment and what can be done to build more resilient communities.

The project delivers benefits that extend well beyond reducing surface water flooding. By introducing sustainable drainage into school environments, the installations help improve flood resilience while creating greener, more colourful and welcoming outdoor spaces for pupils and staff.

Perhaps most importantly, the project provides lasting educational opportunities. Children can see SuDS in action, understand how rainwater is managed and learn about the connections between water, plants, wildlife and the wider environment. Through outdoor learning and hands-on activities, schools can incorporate water management, biodiversity and climate resilience into their curriculum.

By involving pupils in the design and delivery process, the project also encourages a sense of ownership over their surroundings. Children are able to think about how their school grounds could be improved and what they can do to help tackle environmental challenges in the future.

These lessons don't stop at the school gates. As pupils share their experiences with friends and family, knowledge of sustainable drainage and flood resilience can spread into the wider community, helping to build a more informed and environmentally conscious generation.