Warberry C of E Academy has transformed an unused outdoor area into a thriving Forest School space after securing funding and support from dozens of volunteers, businesses and community groups.
The new outdoor learning environment at the Torquay school, which is part of the Learning Academy Partnership, has been developed to help pupils connect with nature, build practical skills and support their wellbeing.
What began as an empty space has been turned into a dedicated area for outdoor education through a combination of funding, donations and volunteer support.
The school secured £2,000 to fund key infrastructure improvements, including the installation of a shed and wider site upgrades. Additional funding secured by school leaders also enabled the construction of a shelter, allowing the space to be used throughout the year.
A special contribution came from headteacher Steve Bone’s daughter, who created a hand-painted design for the shed sign.
South West Water supported the project by delivering free water conservation lessons for pupils and helping to develop water collection systems now used on site.
Pupils are also involved in sustainable gardening projects, including growing vegetables and learning about environmental stewardship.
Local businesses donated materials including woodchips and logs, while more than 30 individuals and over ten businesses contributed time, resources and support to help complete the project.
The school also thanked Claire Farley for her role in writing funding applications and helping to develop a team of parents who contributed to the project.
In addition, staff completed Wild Tribe training and took part in modelled lessons to ensure teachers are confident using the space and embedding outdoor learning across the curriculum from Reception to Year 6.
Steve Bone, headteacher at Warberry C of E Academy, said: “This project truly reflects what can be achieved when a whole community works together with shared purpose and determination.
“We are incredibly grateful to every one of the volunteers and businesses who have contributed to making this vision a reality.
“The Forest School area is already having a positive impact on our pupils’ learning, wellbeing and connection to nature.”
Tracey Cleverley, trust lead at the Learning Academy Partnership, said: “The transformation of this space at Warberry C of E Academy is a fantastic example of community collaboration in action.
“It is inspiring to see how funding, volunteering and creativity have come together to create something so meaningful and sustainable for pupils.
“This is a project that will continue to grow and benefit generations of children.”
Warberry C of E Academy said it looks forward to continuing to develop the Forest School area as a long-term resource for outdoor learning.
