The youngest children at Mabe School are now able to extend their learning outdoors after a new covered, weather-proof area was officially opened last week.

The extension to the early years/year one classroom is considered a real asset to the school and will be much-used over the coming years.

Head teacher, Paul Hayes, said: “Although this extension alone will not increase the school’s current capacity, it will greatly improve the early years foundation stage provision and learning environment.

“Research suggests that outdoor learning complements indoor learning and is equally important in a child’s development, especially in their infant years. The construction of a rain proof |outdoor space will provide a better transition between the classroom and the playground and offer an alternative learning environment to be used by the whole class or smaller group of children |throughout the school day. This is especially important in a mixed aged class with differing |curriculum requirements.”

The new extension, which was built by Shane McCartney Property Maintenance, was officially opened by Norma Sanders, a teaching assistant and governor who has dedicated many years to the school.

“When we were thinking about who was going to open it, one name kept coming round and everyone had the same name on their lips,” said Mr Hayes. “Norma has worked with the children for many years, especially with this age group.”

In addition to the new extension, the school will soon be welcoming a new children’s play shed which has been donated by Truro Portable Buildings of Longdowns.