A CLIMBING frame, mud kitchen, water exploration zone, tunnel, enormous sand pit, a stage with seating and a wigwam are all now part of the new favourite outdoor places for children at a village school near Haslemere.

Northchapel Primary school is celebrating the opening of its new outdoor area for children in early years and key stage one.

“The finished results are beyond out expectations,” said headteacher Helen Coleman.

The children were so excited to get outside and the area has been in constant use since the start of this term.

The staff are able to plan for exciting outdoor learning experiences and children can mix across the age groups and learn together, Mrs Coleman said.

Also included in the new space is a shelter for all the ride-on vehicles and two storage sheds.

With the space behind the classrooms in a very poor state of repair and the exterior security fence falling down, the school has been busy raising funds for the last year.

Support came from the local authority, the Big Lottery, Lurgashall and Northchapel parish councils as well as the Lurgashall Fete Committee and the Wates Foundation.

Parents also supported the project with donations and raising money through the PTA.

Mrs Coleman added: “The other exciting development this term has been that we also now offer extended school for working families with a new breakfast and after school club.”

Children can arrive at 7.45am and stay until 5.30pm and those who stay for the extended school sessions in Elm Club are able to make the most of the new outside area and enjoy building, playing and exploring together.

With spaces still available Little Oaks Preschool, at Northchapel, is also based in the block of classrooms and children are able to work and learn alongside the children in the reception class, creating a smooth and successful transition for school.