Pupils at Masham Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School are enjoying a new playground designed to boost wellbeing and learning. The outdoor space for Reception and Year 1 has been transformed from an “old and tired” area into a vibrant environment.
The revamped playground features a large, surfaced area for play and a wooden canopy for outdoor learning in all weather. Pupils are using trunks, bark, boxes, wooden toys, tyres, and water to develop balance, social skills, and imagination.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for education, learning and skills, Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, said: “Learning opportunities for our younger children should never be underestimated. It is delightful to see the smiles on the children’s faces enjoying this new and exciting outside space.”
The school’s executive headteacher, Jonny Davies, said: “The children absolutely love the new outdoor space, and I would like to thank everyone who was involved. This project has been popular as everyone appreciates how important this space is for children to get off to the best possible start to their education.”
He added that the previous asphalt area was outdated, while the new artificial grass surface is much more suitable. “This space is not only supporting the children’s learning but encouraging them to enliven their imagination, learn social skills and improve their physical confidence,” he said.
With pupils now enjoying daily opportunities to play and explore, the school’s investment in its outdoor space is already proving to be a success.
