An Ulverston primary school has expanded its teaching space with a new cabin classroom – thanks to the dedicated work of fundraisers and a financial boost from accountancy firm JF Hornby & Co.
Children, staff and members of the Parent, Teacher and Friends Association from Croftlands Junior School held a special opening ceremony on national Outdoor Classroom Day.
They were joined by managing director of JF Hornby & Co, Paul Hornby, and accounts manager Leanne Bayliff, who is also PTFA member.
The event was arranged by Helen Rogers, association chair, who said: “Our new pod is far more than an outdoor space.
“It will provide children with opportunities to learn, explore, create and grow in an environment that supports their wellbeing, imagination and development for years to come.
“It has been made possible by the tireless fundraising efforts of our small team, and of course the incredibly generous donations from JF Hornby & Co via the Hornby Foundation.”
The 30sq m cabin cost £23,000 to buy, install and connect to the school’s electricity supply, with half the funds generated through the association activity over a number of years and the remainder pledged by the Hornby Foundation.
The new cabin will provide a flexible space for small group teaching, supporting reading and focused learning in a calm environment.
It will also strengthen the school’s Forest School provision, hosting nurture groups, creative activities, and sessions focused on mental health and wellbeing, while offering targeted support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
Croftlands School Council, which is made up of pupils aged five to 11, worked to gather ideas for how the cabin could be used and created a presentation for the opening ceremony.
They chose to name the classroom, The Den, and thanked the association, Hornby’s and families connected to the school for their combined efforts in raising the funds.
The Hornby Foundation has pledged more than £400,000 to charities, community groups and sporting organisations since it was established in 2015.
Mr Hornby, who last year was awarded an MBE for his services to philanthropy and the communities of Furness and the South Lakes, said: “This is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when schools, families and the wider community come together.
“We are proud to support projects like this through the Hornby Foundation, particularly those which create opportunities for young people to learn, build confidence and support their wellbeing.
“The dedication shown by the association has been exceptional, and we’re delighted to play a part in bringing this space to life for pupils both now and in the years ahead.
