Pupils enjoy new outdoor classroom

Gary and son Daniel Fleming cut the ribbon to officially open the new outdoor learning centre at Heriot Primary School.

Heriot Primary School pupils took part enthusiastically in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for their new outdoor classroom on Friday, June 24.

Parents, staff and local councillors like John Mitchell were also present, partaking of tea, coffee and cakes.

Also on hand was Gareth Shields, community investment manager for energy firm SSE.

SSE have helped fund the project, working with the school’s parent council, with £1,500, from the fund associated with their nearby Toddleburn wind farm.

The parent council have also been contributing to the costs of the structure, which will also function as a shelter for pupils while they are on their breaks, with fundraising events including coffee mornings, a duck race and a Christmas Fayre.

Head teacher Susan Andersonsaid the classroom was “A fabulous additions to the school.

“This is really great because it will allow the children to engage in of their messier artwork in this space.

“It’s also, because of its position, good for birdwatching and bug hunting, and another thing we’re able to do is bring on seedlings in there before planting them in our garden.”

She summed up: “It’s great that these things can be added to and brought into our curriculum.”