Gamesley Primary School gifted £20k funding for outdoor STEM space

Gamesley Primary School has welcomed representatives from Howmet Aerospace to celebrate the presentation of a generous grant that will transform the school’s outdoor learning environment. 

The funding, a substantial £20,000, will support the development of a safe, enclosed space on the school field, designed for all children to use. The project will incorporate the existing forest school site and expand it into a vibrant hub for STEM learning. Plans include mini engineering projects, hands-on opportunities to explore scientific and mathematical concepts, and the creation of a haven for local wildlife. 

Pupils at the school say the new outdoor STEM area will make a real difference to their day-to-day learning. One group of pupils said learning outside “will make school even more exciting” and described outdoor lessons as “an adventure”, adding that it will help more children feel happy to come to school each day, ready to learn. 

They also believe the space will enrich the curriculum by allowing them to take their practical learning further. Pupils said they are looking forward to testing ideas, building projects, and discovering new things in nature, explaining that having more opportunities to explore outside will make lessons “richer and even more fun”. 

Head of School Caroline Sutherland said the project represents a major step forward for the school. “This is a significant step forward for our school. This development will give our children the chance to bring their learning to life. We believe it will improve attendance, enrich the curriculum, and support the well-being of our pupils by making learning more engaging, practical, and enjoyable.” 

Children also highlighted the positive impact the new space will have on their wellbeing, saying being outdoors helps them feel happy, healthy, and calm. They said learning in fresh air, surrounded by nature, will help them feel more confident and ready to do their best. 

The initiative is expected to benefit every child at the school, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning in the great outdoors. With the support of Howmet Aerospace, pupils said they feel excited about growing into “the scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers of the future,” while enjoying school even more.