A LOCAL school is creating a 'classroom without walls' to encourage pupils to connect with nature and benefit from outdoor learning.
Berrow Primary School has shared photographs showing the latest progress of its forest school provision, which is replacing its previously overgrown and unloved outdoor areas.
The forest school is being developed by a staff member who is passionate about the benefits outdoor learning have for children.
The parts of the facility now in use are a large allotment, a garden with raised planters and a poly tunnel, an outdoor classroom for forest school activities, and a pond.
Louise Prewett, who is qualified in forest school teaching, has been leading the clean-up project.
She said: "I am not just a staff member but also a parent of a child in this wonderful school.
"On gaining my employment, I made it clear my passion was to take on these areas and develop them in such a way that all year groups can enjoy outdoor learning.
"Children benefit so much from connecting with nature.
"The children can help to maintain this provision and gain a sense of ownership and responsibility as well as the benefits to their mental health and wellbeing."
Berrow Primary School's headteacher Lee Chandler has been supportive of the forest school's development.
A forest school club is currently running one day a week after school and there are plans to run the club throughout the week for all year groups.
The school is looking for local people and businesses to donate equipment including fencing, tools, plants, ropes, logs, seats, and wildlife resources like feeders.
Mrs Prewett said: "We are truly grateful for anything that can be donated and it would really benefit these young learners."
West Croft Nurseries, located in Red Road, Berrow, has donated vegetables, flowers, and compost.
Businesses that donate to the forest school area will receive an advertisement of this in Berrow Primary School's weekly newsletter to parents.
For more information about donating to the forest school, email Mrs Prewett at sch.031@educ.somerset.gov.uk.
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