A NEW playground is proving to be a fantastic learning area for schoolchildren.

Elmley Castle CE First School has just opened a new outside play area, which is exclusively for their pre-school and reception class.

It has been built thanks to funding from the school, parents and the PTA under the guidance of Sally Roberts, head of Class 1.

Mrs Roberts said: “The new outside play area looks fantastic and is now part of their everyday classroom. We have a huge learning space that is safe and exciting for our younger children to be busy in.

"Our aim is always to encourage them to grow physically, emotionally and intellectually in an independent way. Great use has been made of the area already; riding bikes, playing with toys and practicing our writing skills are just a few of the things we’ve enjoyed.”

Staff at Elmley Castle, which is situated between Pershore and Evesham, say the "family atmosphere" at the school is key to their success.

They say their small classes, with no more than 20 pupils, have enabled the school to achieve the highest academic standards in the whole of the county.

“Our Early Years data and Key Stage One results are outstanding, with 100 per cent of our children reaching age-related expectations or above for two consecutive years,” said Mrs Roberts. “We are blessed with fantastic outside spaces – our outdoor provision sets us apart. The children love our forest school, which all the school have access to, and green spaces in which to enjoy sporting and physical activities.”