Parents and businesses have made pupils’ dream of an outdoor classroom at Calverley CE Primary School come true.
In a few weeks the classroom, measuring 8 metres long and 5 metres wide, will be installed in the school grounds to enhance the outdoor learning experience of the pupils.
The idea for an outdoor classroom came from Headteacher Bob Curran and has been entirely funded through fund-raising by the Friends of Calverley CE Primary School.
The project is being managed by Emma Milligan, a member of the Friends group, who said:
“The support we have had from parents has been amazing. We have also been very well supported by local companies, without whom it would not have been possible. We are looking forward to the classroom being built so our children can benefit more from learning in the outdoors.”
The classroom is being built by Calverley company Outdoor Classrooms, owned by Richard and Gina Kirby. Richard is a former pupil at the school. It is being put together at the company’s workshop and sawmill at Crossley Farm, Calverley.
In a few weeks the structure will be taken to the site in the school grounds in sections and rebuilt.
The classroom will be placed on groundworks provided by Farsley firm, Palmer Landscapes, who have a child who attends the school. Other parents are providing plumbing and electrical work for the building.
Headteacher Bob Curran said:
“We are really excited about the outdoor classroom and I want to thank our parents for supporting the Friends, who have put many hours of work into this project, and also the local companies for their support. The Calverley community is very supportive of our school, which is very much appreciated.
“We have extensive school grounds at Calverley and pupils will be able to explore the natural world around them and report their findings in the outdoor classroom, rather than having to go back to the school building.
“We also want to furnish the classroom with comfortable furniture which will be more conducive to reading and drawing. The outdoor classroom will also provide a sheltered spot in all weathers, meaning that lessons can take place outside all year round. Studies have shown that pupils tend to have increased concentration and are more motivated, inspired and willing to learn when they are outdoors.”
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