New playground equipment has been unveiled at two specialist education sites registered under R.E.A.L. Independent Schools (RIS) Mansfield.
The play and outdoor equipment at Delta House in Mansfield and Blidworth, south of the market town, includes a trim trails, stand up spinner and covered seating areas.
R.E.A.L.’s Head of Schools Kirsten Gibson was at Blidworth (pictured, top) in December for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open their playground.
She said: “It’s great to see the newly-fitted playgrounds at Blidworth and Delta House, and exciting to think about how the students will benefit from the spaces.
“Movement, balancing, spinning, climbing and being outdoors is essential for personal development and well-being as well as a support to help our students to be ready to learn. Staff have a range of ideas for outdoor learning that can be embedded throughout the curriculum, and the opportunity to learn together, problem solve and be creative can be developed through these outdoor spaces.”
RIS Mansfield Head of Behaviours and Attitudes, Ali Wellings, said learners, staff and Louie the dog were all part of the Blidworth grand opening ceremony.
She said: “We’re all very excited with our new playground. Our learners at Blidworth couldn’t wait to have a go on the new equipment with one describing it as ‘awesome’.”
At Delta House, RIS Mansfield Deputy Head Anneka Read said its students and staff were equally thrilled with their new playground. She said: “Our pupils love outdoor learning and this equipment will enable them to develop a range of skills both socially and physically.”
Both Blidworth and Delta House sites are unique and different, providing learning spaces for curriculum delivery for between 20 and 30 learners depending on the individual needs of those who access it.
The sites are two of seven that comprise RIS Mansfield, one of two registered schools run by R.E.A.L. Education, who also offer personalised and vocational alternative provision. It has been part of The Aurora Group since May.