Langlee opens 'outdoor classroom' for children of all abilities

Friday, June 16 2006

Langlee Primary School formally opened its new 'outdoor classroom' and inclusive play area on Wednesday, 14 June.

The play area was designed and built for all the children in Langlee's nursery classes, including those with special needs. It was funded with £10,000 from the Big Lottery and £20,000 from the DDA Fund, plus donations of material and man hours from local businesses.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was carried out by retired additional needs assistant Hazel Galloway and retired nursery nurse Tommy Wilson. Tea and cakes were then provided by P5 pupils, who also gave their vote of thanks to all involved.

Scottish Borders Council Architect Sarah Black designed the new play area. She explained, "The whole area has been raised to allow disabled access. What used to be a steep slope is now a flat, fun area made from 'play safety' surfacing. Pupils can now all play, grow plants and take part in lots of fun activities together."
Joan Mackay, Principal Teacher of Exceptional Needs at Langlee Primary school, thinks the facility is fantastic: "Our new, inclusive outdoor play gives us an interesting, colourful, healthy and stimulating outdoor space that allows all of our pre-school children to play together safely. It gives them additional activities in an outdoor environment, with particular emphasis on sensory and physical play. Our Primary 5 children have helped us to develop the area, indeed, the whole school is interested and we've been particularly pleased with the help we've had from local firms."

SBC Council Leader David Parker, who attended the opening, said, "This is a tremendous achievement for the school. The hard work of staff, parents and children is very impressive and this opening today is a testament to their dedication."

The school would like to thank a number of local firms including The Building Centre, 100 Aker Wood Garden Centre and Murray & Burrell. The school would also like to thank the Big Lottery, SBC Occupational Therapist Ian Reilly for securing the DDA funding and SBC Architect Sarah Black for the design.

Reference: News-14786, Contact the Author