Eco Classroom at School

Children at Milford on Sea C.E Primary School Academy Trust will be getting closer to nature after it opened its new eco outdoor classroom last Friday (12 September).

The new classroom, known as the Eco-Pod, is a recycled shipping container, which is situated within the existing school garden and nature reserve. It will enable pupils to experience hands-on learning, whilst being in the outdoors.

click image to enlarge

Bi-fold doors have been fitted to the front of the shipping container, which allow the classroom to be opened up to the existing school ground, while giving it its open feel.

Pupils at the school have been involved in the build of habitat panels that have been attached to the sides of the classroom, which will encourage nesting birds and other local wildlife. A viewing window has also been installed inside, from which children can quietly observe the local wildlife in the nature reserve area, which includes a small pond.

Mr Hill, Headteacher at Milford on Sea C.E Primary School Academy Trust said: “Outdoor learning helps make core subjects rich and relevant to pupils and also gets them excited about learning. So to have this wonderful eco-friendly classroom, which is totally different to what we already have at school has not only got the children excited but the teachers too!”

IKEA Southampton, who has kindly donated all its products to provide the children a fun place to learn in, has internally designed the Eco-Pod. It has also contributed outside furniture so that the school can maximise the decking space surrounding it.

Katie Cadman from IKEA said: “As soon as we heard about this project, we knew immediately it was something we wanted to be involved with. To have our products utilised in such a sustainable environment, with an educational element really excited us.”

Other companies, including Southern Water, Christchurch Timber, Antler Homes, New Forest Lofts, Arum Design and Adcroft have contributed to the classroom build. As well as a number of parents who have kindly given up their time to ensure its success, including Andy Sadler, Rachel and Clive Foster, Rob Lister and Claire Lambert.

We would add our congratulations to the school's Parents Friends Association (PFA) who worked hard to raise funds towards the project, and also thank all the local companies and individuals that contributed to make this excellent new facility for our local children happen.

For further information please contact Rachel Lewis: Tel: 07780 703063

Milford on Sea C.E Primary School 

www.mosps.co.uk