A new play area at an Ipswich primary school will allow children to learn “old fashioned” skills

Ipswich Star: Boys playing in the new Year 1 play area at Dale Hall Community Primary School. Left to right: Leo, Jenson, and Dylan. Picture: GREGG BROWNBoys playing in the new Year 1 play area at Dale Hall Community Primary School. Left to right: Leo, Jenson, and Dylan. Picture: GREGG BROWN

Dale Hall Primary School has unveiled its new free flow outdoor play area for its 60 Year 1 pupils, complete with a Wendy house, music and stage area, and construction area. The equipment has been donated by businesses or sourced through fundraising.

Jayne Wells, Year 1 teacher, said: “It will enhance necessary skills that can get lost in the day-to-day curriculum. They don’t get to go outside much; they are usually on their iPads, so they will learn some old fashioned skills. So far, they have really enjoyed it and been excited.

“Children can go digging in the sandpit, go and read with torches in the Wendy house, and play in the stage and music, water, and guttering and construction areas. We are incredibly impressed. Children will have better motivation to improve their learning skills, co-operation and working in a team, and classroom performance.”

Ipswich Star: Lyla playing in the new Year 1 play area at Dale Hall Community Primary School. Picture: GREGG BROWNLyla playing in the new Year 1 play area at Dale Hall Community Primary School. Picture: GREGG BROWN

Ipswich Star: Ella (left) and Ellice playing in the new Year 1 play area at Dale Hall Community Primary School. Picture: GREGG BROWNElla (left) and Ellice playing in the new Year 1 play area at Dale Hall Community Primary School. Picture: GREGG BROWN