Dartmoor village school prepares to unveil transformed outdoor space
A major community-led project at a Teign Valley school is nearing its big moment, with pupils, families and supporters set to celebrate the finished transformation this week
After years of fundraising and community support, a Teign Valley school is preparing to unveil its newly transformed outdoor spaces this week.
Hennock Primary School will officially open its new playground and garden this Friday (11 September), bringing together pupils, families, volunteers, local businesses and the people who helped turn the project into reality.
A previosuly underused area of the school grounds, which was often affected by flooding and mud, has been transformed into a nature-rich outdoor environment designed for learning, play and exploration.
The project has been led by the school's Parent, Teachers and Friends Association (PTFA), with support from the school, Link Academy Trust, local businesses, volunteers and funding partners.
A £30,000 infrastructure grant from Hennock Parish Council was among the funding that helped make the work possible, alongside community fundraising and donations.
The finished space includes nature-rich play areas, outdoor learning spaces, covered areas, planting, sensory features, musical elements, timber structures, sand play areas and a bespoke children's mosaic.
Hennock’s pupils have played a part in shaping the project, suggesting animals and other features for the mosaic and contributing artwork that has been incorporated into the new surroundings.
Alison Wonnacott, secretary of Hennock Primary School PTFA, said the project was about more than simply creating a new playground.
“The playground project began with a simple but important vision: to create a high-quality outdoor learning environment that would not only benefit current pupils but also help secure the long-term future of our school.
“What was once an underused, often flooded area has been transformed into a beautiful outdoor space where our children can learn, play and connect with nature,” she said.
For the school, the project is also part of a wider effort to highlight what Hennock can offer as a small rural school.
Like many village schools, Hennock has faced the challenge of maintaining pupil numbers.
Supporters hope the new outdoor environment will help showcase the school's approach to outdoor learning, creativity and exploration while retaining the character of the village school.
Families considering Hennock Primary School are being encouraged to visit and see the new facilities for themselves.
The public will get its first chance to explore the finished outdoor spaces during the Hennock & Teign Village Garden & Craft Festival, which takes place on Saturday, 12 and Sunday, 13 September.
Hennock Primary School will be one of three festival venues, with the school open from 1-5pm on Saturday and 11am-4.30pm on Sunday.
Visitors will be able to see the new playground and garden, view a children's art display and take part in a nature-rich workshop.
The Moorlander, along with other members of the media, have been invited to attend the official opening this Friday.