Outdoor education space opens at Melksham Oak

A new outdoor education space has opened at Melksham Oak Community School designed to give pupils meaningful opportunities to learn, grow and connect with nature.

The space will allow students access to a dedicated outdoor learning environment where they can take part in a range of activities including team-building challenges, environmental projects, bushcraft and practical life-skills development.

Staff involved in the project say the provision will play an important role in supporting students who benefit from practical and experiential learning approaches.

Associate Headteacher Mrs Clark, said, “Learning doesn’t only happen inside the classroom. This space will allow our pupils to explore, be curious, discover and grow – learning not only about the world around them but about themselves within it. We’re grateful to everyone who supported the project and helped make it possible. A special mention to Mr Lavery for his passion and dedication.”

At the opening event on 6th March, visitors had the opportunity to explore the outdoor learning space and see demonstrations of activities that will form part of the programme. Students took part in practical challenges and experience first-hand the type of learning opportunities that will now be available.

Associate Senior Leader Miss Ornov said, “We are also really excited to be opening up this space to our local feeder schools, starting next week with our primary launch events.

“Outdoor education allows young people to discover strengths they might not realise they have. When students step outside the traditional classroom environment, they often show creativity, resilience and teamwork in ways that really help build confidence.”

As the programme begins, staff are looking forward to seeing how the new provision will support students’ personal development, wellbeing and engagement with learning.

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