Monkhouse Primary School

Monkhouse Primary School serves a community of 240 pupils and their families. In late 2018 we began a programme to update our traditional yard and field outdoor play areas to strategically and sustainably improve the quality of play opportunities with the support of OPAL play times.

Since then, we have created a stimulating environment where pupils can play adventurously and independently to develop their practical and social skills. We have had extremely positive feedback from parents and pupils alike and have grand plans to make further improvements “There are so many different ways to play with the new equipment. You can use your imagination and have fun.”

With the support of Venator’s Bright Ideas Fund and match funding from a parent in 2019 we have created a “kitchen” area where pupils can pour and mix materials to understand liquid, suspension and solid states, measurements and more. This year we would love to utilise the funds to purchase a hand water pump and even a water maze to extend the STEM play and learning opportunities and promote problem solving and teamwork during play times.