Pupils of Oxenhope C of E Primary School have pledged to be active every day in March to raise funds to enhance their outdoor learning experience.
Friends of Oxenhope (PTA) have organised a fundraising event with an ambitious goal to raise £5,000 to transform Oxenhope C of E’s Primary School nature area. Over 120 pupils are running, walking, swimming or cycling a mile a day throughout March, so far raising £2500.
The nature area, owned by the school since 1987, was recently named ‘Blackwell Woods’ after the late Chair of Governors, Anthony Blackwell. The woods, used weekly for outdoor learning sessions, have recently become overgrown and subject to flooding, therefore limiting the usage, and biodiversity.
The nature area transformation envisages a large wooden canopy for an outdoor classroom and designated areas for growing plants, fruit, and vegetables. Introducing new trees, hedges, plants and a pond will aim to provide additional habitats and attract a range of wider species. With the help of 20 volunteers involved in rejuvenating the nature area including planting two large hedgerows (donated by YORGreenCIC) and the fantastic fundraiser, the pupils are getting closer to connecting with nature in their outdoor learning lessons.
Mrs Jones, Head Teacher of Oxenhope C of E Primary, said:
“I am incredibly proud of all our pupils taking on this challenge to raise money to improve our very own Nature Area. This has been a dream / vision of ours for many years and to finally see this coming together is just unbelievable. The benefit of learning outdoors is so invaluable and crucial for our children.’