A SCHOOL in Darlington has opened a brand new outdoor learning area.

Pupils, parents and staff at Polam Hall gathered on Tuesday to see the ribbon being cut on the new early years outdoor space, which is suitable for use in all weather.

Older pupils and community groups will also be invited to use the space, with the Brownies and those pupils offered after-school care being among the first to benefit.

The facility has been built with the support of £10,000 from the National Lottery Awards for All grant.

Parents attending the opening were offered biscuits decorated by pupils, whilst each child also wore their own personalised ‘superhero’ masks and shields made especially for the occasion.

Cate Lawton, junior head at Polam Hall, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this all-weather provision and activities such as the crawl-through tunnel and large sand pit will provide both physical and explorative stimuli.

“Some children naturally prefer to be outside and we can now facilitate this in all weathers.”