A grant of nearly £6,000 has helped a pre-school transform its outdoor learning area.
Children at Sombornes Pre-School in King’s Somborne are now benefiting from an expanded learning area after receiving funding of £5,972.61 from the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF).
The cash, allocated by Test Valley Borough Council, has been used to create a safe and stimulating environment for the children, who are now able to learn about nature, biodiversity and healthy eating through hands-on play.
The pre-school used the funding to install secure fencing, wooden planters, a shaded picnic bench and new play equipment.
Sombornes Pre-School has transformed its outdoor learning space. (Image: Test Valley Borough Council) The need for the project was identified during a community workshop hosted by Test Valley Borough Council at Broughton Village Hall, which brought organisations together to share community focused ideas.
Children are now able to grow cucumbers, tomatoes, beetroot and carrots, and can learn about the development of plants using perspex-sided planters that allow them to watch root growth.
The shaded bench provides a space for outdoor learning, meals and socialising in all weather.
Families, staff and local supporters were invited to see the improvements during a special open morning on Saturday, May 31, when the children showcased their planting projects and enjoyed the new outdoor facilities.
Cllr Alison Johnston attended the open morning, saying: “This is a wonderful example of how a grant like this can make a big difference.
“The space is now a vibrant, hands-on learning area that encourages curiosity, independence, and a love of nature from an early age.
“It was a joy to see the children so engaged and proud of what they’ve grown.
“Supporting projects like this is exactly what the Rural England Prosperity Fund is for – baking ideas that come from the community and provide lasting value for local families.”
The project is said to benefit not only the children attending the pre-school, but also parents and carers – offering a nurturing environment that encourages outdoor learning and early awareness of sustainability and healthy living.
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