The Nursery children at Russell House have a new garden and they love it! Accessed directly from their classroom, it provides many opportunities for exploration and play stimulating their imagination, sparking curiosity and ensuring they have fun.

There’s lots to entice the children. The muddy area is great for stomping and squelching in wellies while making tasty mud pies. They check on flowers and vegetables they planted, keeping them watered in the sun.

They play in the sand pit and swing and slide from the climbing frame. They draw with chalk on the pavings and picnic on the lawn. Soon they will be able to investigate who has checked in to their new bug motel.

The garden’s designed to ensure they can enjoy it come rain or shine. And because doors from the classroom open onto the enclosed space, they can choose whether they want to be inside or out.

“There are so many benefits for the children of being able to play and learn outside, invigorated by fresh air and natural light,” says Mrs Chaffé, Head of Early Years at Russell House. “This new garden adds an extra dimension to their learning – and to their love of school.”