A Hampstead teacher has paid tribute to the “wonderful work” carried out by a special needs school after pledging her support for a campaign to raise money for a new research centre.

Last week, a pair of piggie banks were delivered to children at Hampstead Hill School, in Pond Street, as part of the Pigs4Kids campaign, backed by the Ham&High, to support the new development and research centre at Swiss Cottage Specialist SEN School, in Adelaide Road.

Alexa Greayer, deputy headteacher of Hampstead Hill, said: “They’ve done great work for many, many years. I remember from when I was a child knowing about the school in Swiss Cottage – they do wonderful work.

“We have had autistic children and children with physical problems at the school so we are very keen that our children help others.”

The special needs school is due to move into its new home in Adelaide Road imminently.

Pupils at Hampstead Hill, the first school to pledge its support to the campaign, will be attending an assembly dedicated to Pigs4Kids when they return from their half-term break later this month.

Ms Greayer is confident pupils will have no problem raising funds.

She said: “We will do a big drive. Children are very open-minded and warm, they don’t see barriers like grown-ups do.

“They are uncluttered by society and they will take any challenge to their heart.”

In total, the Ham&High is hoping to raise �60,000 for Pigs4Kids and has attracted the support of a number of local businesses including Star Box Coffee stall in Finchley Road.

To get involved in the campaign call the Ham&High offices on 020 7433 6200.