BUDE Infant School has undertaken developments on its outdoor area, having recently transformed its Foundation Stage outdoor learning area to follow the school’s motto, ‘Play to Learn, Learn to Achieve’.

Following the success of the developments to the main playground last summer, the school decided to transform the Foundation Stage area to improve the quality and breadth of children’s learning, engagement, collaborative play opportunities and shared dialogue, which has been an evident success.

Members of staff, governors and parents all helped with enthusiasm, beginning their work in the Easter holidays.

Many new features were created, including a nature area for the children to investigate mini-beasts, a mud kitchen for imaginative play, a construction area, a water play area, an art wall, a marble and car run, and even a music station.

The newly developed outdoors area was received with great excitement and eagerness by the children on their first day back, as they played the instruments, made mud potions and used their senses to explore the new plants.

The school has reported that the children love being outside more than ever, and their quality of learning has improved.

The source of many of the new things built and made in the outdoor area came from recycled or second-hand materials. Bude Infant School has expressed their appreciation to Wyevale Garden Centre for their donated materials, including sand, compost and herbs; Bude Tyres for donating old tyres which were used as planters and a caterpillar seating area; and to the dedicated members of the school community who gave their time and materials to contribute to the project.