The children at St Stephen’s CEVA Primary in Bath returned to school in September with a new addition to their grounds – a new stage!
The stage, which has been a long-term fund-raising project for the school’s PTA, was designed by Bath-based architects Stonewood Design. Headteacher Andy Bowman said, “The idea was to create a beautiful space that could be used flexibly for play all year round, whilst also being large enough for a whole class to use it as an outdoor classroom in lesson time. It is carefully placed facing a grassy slope which is perfect for an audience so we can use it for assemblies and performances too.”
The oak-frame stage was officially opened in the first week of term by one of the pupils (chosen at random) and has been a huge hit with the staff, parents and children alike. It is part of a long-term focus at St Stephen’s on play and outdoor learning which has resulted in the school recently being awarded the OPAL Platinum Award, becoming one of only 25 schools in the country to do so.
“We know that children learn best with fresh air and natural light around them so to now have a base for outdoor learning is great,” added Andy. “The real treat, however, has been seeing the way the children have been using the stage at playtime. It is a place for dressing up and role-play, singing, dancing, chatting and having fun. It’s been a pirate ship, a space rocket… the possibilities are endless!”
