A special school in East Cambridgeshire has had a helping hand from the local community to bring its ‘Play and Explore’ outdoor space to life.

Earlier this month Highfield Littleport Academy, which is part of the Active Learning Trust, appealed to parents and local residents for support, prompting a positive response from the community.

The school sought help to improve the early years playground with sensory resources aimed at engaging learners during outdoor activities. and promote interaction and engagement.

The 1st Littleport Croft Beavers group, led by Tanya Watson, promptly volunteered to assist the school.

The group created three impressive sensory panels incorporating various textures and sounds, taking into account the needs of the learners at Highfield Littleport.

Throughout this process, the beavers also worked towards earning badges as part of their 'construction and community' work.

The school is continuing to enhance its outdoor spaces to support the students with their learning.

During the recent half-term break, artificial grass was installed, and fundraising initiatives are ongoing to acquire more equipment for the area.

The school caters to students within a two to 19 year age range who have significant and complex learning difficulties.

Yvonne Skillern, headteacher at Highfield Littleport Academy, said: “We aim to work collaboratively with the community and this lovely gesture exemplifies that spirit.

“We wish to thank the 1st Littleport Croft Beavers for their donation. The panels are fantastic and our students love them.”

Lynsey Holzer, CEO of Active Learning Trust, said: “The addition of these lovely sensory panels to the early years playground has transformed the area into a fantastic space for the children to play, explore and learn.

“We are very grateful to the beavers for all their hard work and generosity.”

Ely Standard: Students from Highfield Littleport Academy enjoying their new ‘Play and Explore’ space

Ely Standard: Students from Highfield Littleport Academy enjoying their new ‘Play and Explore’ space