Outdoor Classroom at Pooles Park Primary

Pooles Park Primary wanted to develop an outdoor classroom that would allow them to continue their environmental project throughout the seasons.

The colder months were making the environmental themed workshops at Pooles Park Primary School difficult. They wanted to develop an outdoor classroom that would allow them to continue their project throughout the seasons. Environmental Tutor Sophia Ioannou tells us how they have benefited from the new space.

Why did you want to develop an outdoor learning space?

Having an outdoor classroom and a sheltered space where we can continue to run our environmental themed workshops in any season has been a dream come true. We have been waiting to develop a new classroom that would have a toilet and kitchenette with refreshment making facilities for over seven years. We knew that building a Learning Escape would enable us to carry out our project efficiently and productively throughout the year.

What made The Learning Escape stand out from other providers?

I had previously visited a community garden in Islington where they have a Garden Escape. I was really impressed by the building, its functionality and how it blended in with the surrounding environment aesthetically. I knew it was the type of building that would be perfect for our school so I did not even look for other providers.

What are the biggest benefits you have noticed for the pupils and your school?

We now have a sheltered facility that enables us to continue our environmental workshops in adverse weather conditions. It is a much-needed classroom, meeting room, rendezvous point and hub for our volunteers, visitors, parents, families, staff and children. The children enjoyed watching the build and we were very excited to see the beautiful finished room. It feels as if it has always been here and it has had a truly positive impact on us all.

How did you find working with The Learning Escape overall?

The team at The Learning Escape helped us from the very beginning. They led us through all of the paperwork and documents to satisfy the funder’s requirements and the builders were very efficient and approachable. Liaising with the project manager was straightforward and I would recommend The Learning Escape to other schools and community gardens.