We welcomed 10 schools to our Social Enterprise event on Thursday 12th March 2020. We focused this event on learning outside of the classroom and asked children to design new learning and discovery apparatus that enhanced cognitive development, stimulate the senses, and/or enhance overall well being.

Schools were asked to describe what ‘learning’ meant to them, and critically think about their school’s outdoor facilities – What is available? What do we learn when playing or using this equipment? What new piece of equipment would we like for our school if money was no object?

After some design time and decision-making, children were asked to produce one final design and prototype. We were delighted to see multi-use cubes, herb and flower gardens, climbing walls and climbing frames, sand pits and outdoor libraries. Schools had to complete paperwork to explain who in their school could use the equipment and how it may fit in with the curriculum. We were blown away by each school’s careful consideration and articulation, each demonstrating they fully understood the benefits of outdoor learning.

As part of Reach Out’s ongoing commitment to provide extraordinary opportunities and learning experiences to local primaries, we are delighted to grant one school sponsorship to bring their outdoor learning design to fruition.

Congratulations to Dunkirk Primary School who were the judges’ choice for their hexagonal outdoor learning space. The Hexagon features six sections dedicated to Art, Science, Maths, Creative Writing, Reading, Role Play and Music, with resources rotating according to the curriculum.

The Hexagon included a comfy seating area in the center for those choosing to use the library, and break out space surrounding the six walls for play and learning. The Hexagon’s multi-functionality, longevity and accessibility really won extra points. We look forward to working with Dunkirk Primary School over the next year to see their design come to life.

A full gallery of images from the day are available here.