An outdoor learning centre could be the latest accessory for Ramsgate Arts Primary which opened its 4 million site in Newington Road last September.
Parents and children enjoyed an alfresco meal lunch on the all-weather grass after the ribbon-snipping ceremony by pupils heralded the multi-use facility officially ‘open’.
Children then had to be able to research the many learning and play stations which will be used for a selection of activities along with more formal teaching.
Special guest with the opening was Colin Clutterbuck from Living Timber who created most of the purpose-built play stations, learning zones and special features.
These include a timber tepee, a mini performance stage, integrated work tables and benches, a mud kitchen and gardening area in addition to a water pump, water wheel and chute for experiments.
Mr Clutterbuck, who also designed the play galleon inside grounds at Upton Junior School in Broadstairs, said: “The whole idea should be to give pupils an entirely selection of different environments have fun with outside.”
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Head of college Nick Budge agreed. He stated: “The outside learning area is fantastic and yes it gives us another educational resource for that children.
“It has places that they will do more formal work like writing and reading and Maths, an area listening and storytelling, and a few quiet corners.
“It is also a great space for learning through exploring as well as for discovery activities.”
Michaela Lewis, Executive Head Teacher for Viking Academy Trust which includes RAPS, Upton Juniors and Chilton Primary, said: “This school is constantly on the develop and yes it feasible for often there is something totally new beingshown to people there for RAPS pupils and families to relish and experience.
“Outdoor learning is the central feature of the other schools and we are aware of it has numerous benefits for our own pupils.”
As well as the timber structures and all-weather grass, the playground surface incorporates a giant coloured alphabet snail including a Maths hop-scotch layout, together with a marked out mini road circuit for tricycle riding and road safety.
The final verdict left for the kids who tested the patio before their fellow pupils C and so they say “It’s awesome.”
