Children at Fosse Mead Primary Academy returned to school this year to find that the outdoor learning area has been completely revamped following a huge £36,000 investment. The transformation has doubled the outdoor space available for students to learn, play, and explore.

The project involved creating more usable space around an old Anderson shelter that sat beneath the astroturf. To make the area safe and functional, the ground was carefully raised and levelled, with new walls, secure fencing, and smart edging added. The result is a modern, open, and inspiring space that enhances the school’s outdoor provision.

As part of the investment, the school has also introduced bright new benches to create calm zones for quiet play, reflection, or reading. Tray tables with exciting new toys have also been added, encouraging children to work together, share ideas, and build vital social skills.

The improved outdoor area is designed not only for recreation but also for educational enrichment. Outdoor learning provides opportunities for creative play, problem-solving, and collaboration, all of which are essential for children’s development. The additional space will allow pupils to engage more actively with nature and hands-on learning, supporting their imagination, communication, and teamwork.

Principal, Jay Virk, and Fosse Mead staff are extremely proud of the transformation and they are already seeing how students are benefitting from the new opportunities the space provides. The project reflects the school’s commitment to creating an environment where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally – and staff are now looking forward to exploring the exciting possibilities that the enhanced outdoor space brings.