Official opening of outdoor learning environment at Ardstraw PS
Thursday, 15 July 2010
Janet Maxwell, former teacher at Ardstraw PS, performs the official opening of the outdoor play area. Also pictured are David Stinson, school principal and Iris Barker, head of property services at the Western Education and Library Board. SU2802EB
Staff, pupils and guests gathered to celebrate the official opening of the Outdoor Learning Environment at Ardstraw Primary School. The new play area will provide a stimulating, challenging and exciting area for the entire school to experience learning and play outside the classroom.
Speaking at the official opening, Ms Iris Barker, head of property services at the Western Education and Library Board (WELB), said: "I am very aware of the responsibility of the Board to provide suitable facilities for schools and the facilities provided here at Ardstraw Primary School reflects the development of education in schools in line with the changes in the primary curriculum.
“Through education, we want to help every child to achieve the best they can and outdoor environments offer different learning, play and social opportunities than indoor environments."
Mrs Janet Maxwell officially opened the Outdoor Play Area. Mrs Maxwell, a teacher at the school for over 30 years, played an important role in the education of not only present pupils, but also their parents and in some cases grandparents.
Mr David Stinson, principal of the school, said: "I am delighted with the Outdoor Play Area and if anyone was in doubt of the benefits of outdoor play they only had to look at the enjoyment of the children who are playing on all the different activities provided."
Mr Stinson, paid special tribute to the outgoing chairman of the board of governors, Mr Jim Smith, who served the school for many years. He said it was a measure of the community spirit in Ardstraw. Rev David Reid has taken up the position as chairman of the Board of Governors of Ardstraw PS. The opening was attended by pupils, parents, grandparents and the wider community and was followed by the school's sports day.
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