MARHAMCHURCH Primary School grounds are currently receiving a make over as the school considers how best to develop learning out of doors.

As part of an earlier Artsmark application, the whole school worked with a local artist to create a superb whale sculpture from reclaimed drift wood.

They have subsequently worked as teams to reclaim the school pond. Overgrown with weeds at the beginning of the year, children have worked to clean, clear and replant the pond, restoring it to its former glory with the help of Chris Biddle.

The school greatly appreciated the support of local suppliers, as well as local landscape gardener Mr Lakeland in donating much of the plants and materials needed. Already children are spotting whirligig beetles, newts and other wild life.

The School Gardening Club also works hard maintaining the vegetable garden and other special flower beds. Supported by Liz Coles, children give their lunch times to learn how to tend and grow, enjoying the harvest of their labours in due course.

Following building works in the summer, the school will then be working together to identify the next areas for development, including a reflective space.

Headteacher, Jayne Biddle, said: "It is lovely to see the children so actively involved in the development of their school grounds.

"It is so important for children to value the wonderful county in which they live and to provide real opportunities for awe and wonder."

See this week's 'Post' for more photos.