PUPIL'S at Queen Elizabeth's School in Crediton will now be able to do some of their learning in the great outdoors following the official opening of the Forest School Outdoor Classroom last Wednesday (January 21).

Members of the South West Forest School Leaders, staff, students and community visitors were invited along to the opening ceremony of this new and innovative learning environment - and principal Rupert Poole, said: “Forest School is a wonderful concept and I'm delighted that we are now able to offer this as an additional dimension to our broad curriculum.

“The outdoor classroom has been the brainchild of Sam Buckle and it is my great pleasure to open it.

“Through the generous support of our Endowment Governors, Sam has been able to furnish the classroom with lots of interesting resources and less traditional items, such as animal skins and bark rubbings.

“It really is a fantastic space for learning about the great outdoors.”

Standing around a burning fire, in the glorious winter sunshine, guests were offered spiced mulled apple juice.

They were then given welcoming words from Josh Powlesland, a Year eight student, followed by a moving story from Sam Buckle, Forest School Leader.

The Forest School outdoor classroom will provide a stimulating environment where pupils will be able to access learning in a different and creative way - As well as trying new out new and exhilarating experiences.

Sam Buckle said: “Thank you to everyone who came to the opening of our amazing outdoor classroom.

“To be standing around a fire with the people that have supported and see the value of an alternative to mainstream methods of education, is very special for me.”

Thanks were also given to Richard Newton Chance, the previous Principal at QE, and Endowment Governors. Without their commitment, support and funding, this project would not have been possible.