New outdoor learning space at Salisbury school thanks to Rotary Clubs

The facility will help pupils learn about the great outdoors.

Published 22nd Sep 2020

Sarum Rotary Club has recently been working alongside the Rotary Clubs of Salisbury and Wilton to provide outdoor learning facilities at Woodland Primary on Bemerton Heath.

The clubs gave around £4000 for the which has involved the construction of a gazebo with seating and a wildlife garden.

The school now boasts a wild flower area, butterfly feeders, a mini beast hotel, raised beds for growing fruit and vegetables (with a solar powered water irrigation system using collected rainwater), bird boxes and feeders, hedgehog boxes as well as live webcams and a trap camera for monitoring wildlife.

Other local schools will also be able to use the facility in their curriculum including Bemerton St John C of E, Pembroke Park, Manor Fields and Dinton Primary.

The project was funded by the Rotary Clubs, Rotary Foundation and a Rotary District donation, enabling work to commence in October 2019.

The gazebo element was due to be installed over Easter 2020 but was delayed until July due to the COVID-19 situation.

With the return to school this month, it means the school not only has a new facility, but also a much needed additional classroom to ease the pressure on existing indoor classrooms in the current situation.

Sarum Rotary Club said

"This is a perfect example of the local Rotary Clubs coming together and undertaking a practical community project which not only benefits young people but is great fun to do."