Exciting plans are under way to develop the playground at Bournmoor Primary School.

Julie Mountain, playground officer for Durham County Council, visited the school last term to give a presentation and slide show of some of the best playgrounds in the country to the children.

They then had the opportunity to put forward their own ideas about how the playground could be improved - with some interesting results.

As part of their homework, the children were asked to put their ideas into practice and produce sketch plans, identifying what they would like from their playground.

Each class was also given an amount of money to spend on playground equipment of their choice, to be used by the children during their break times.

Already 100 trees have been planted in the school grounds by children and parents. Further plans are in progress to paint four large murals in the playground with the help of the entire school.

Children in class four have been given the extra responsibility of forming a specially selected playground squad, to work alongside the teacher on duty to help any children who have a problem at break time.

Job advertisements were put up around the school and children were asked to apply in writing for the positions. They were then formally interviewed by members of staff and asked questions about how they would deal with certain situations.

Class four then created their own uniforms, consisting of a brightly coloured baseball cap to make them easily recognisable to younger children.

The winning designs were then made up by a local hat manufacturer and are used by members of the squad today.

The scheme has been a great success among children and staff, ensuring playtime at Bournmoor is a happy experience.

Contributors: years three and fou