Pioneering link-up between Harrogate school and Northern Powergrid will make a 'wider impact'

The project, made possible through funding from Northern Powergrid and delivered in partnership with contractor Balfour Beatty, has seen part of the grounds at Coppice Valley Primary School transformed into a dedicated outdoor learning environment.

The beautiful space features wildflower meadows, new tree planting and a range of wildlife habitats, including bug hotels and bird boxes.

Cameras have also been installed to allow pupils to observe and track wildlife over time.

In addition to benefiting pupils at Coppice Valley, the new outdoor learning hub has been designed to have a wider impact, with plans to open it to surrounding primary schools as part of Coppice Valley Primary School and Red Kite Learning Trust’s commitment to collaboration.

Hannah McNamara, Headteacher at Coppice Valley Primary School, said: “Our children are growing up in a world where climate change is a reality and the pupils at Coppice Valley care really deeply about protecting the planet.

“The space provides teachers with the opportunity to bring inspiring lessons across the curriculum to life in the outdoors.

"It will support wellbeing as well as education and children learn teamwork, resilience and responsibility in a hands-on way.”

The new outdoor learning hub at Coppice Valley Primary School will support learning through a structured programme, including bushcraft skills.

A bark-chipping pathway has been installed through the meadow, with recycled materials used as part of the wider project.

The area has been designed to support curriculum learning across subjects including science, geography and PSHE, while also promoting pupil wellbeing and environmental awareness.

George Coiley, Sustainability Manager at Northern Powergrid, said the company was proud of its role in the project.

“We are proud to have played a part in developing this amazing new facility, providing access to nature, biodiversity education and a truly inclusive residential experience for kids from right across Harrogate.”

"Coppice Valley School’s biodiversity residential project provided the perfect opportunity for us to support local families and nature at the same time.”

More information: https://www.coppicevalley.com/