PUPILS will return to a York primary school after the Easter break to discover a new outdoor learning area.

English Martyrs’ RC Primary School in Acomb has built the “superground”, which is a cross between a playground and a classroom, to stimulate youngsters’ learning.

Teachers, parents and pupils have all been involved in developing the area, with £4,000 funding from The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS).

The school’s Parent Teachers Friends Association raised £950 to complete the project by holding cake days, summer fairs and stalls.

Thomas Brown, a pupil who has been involved in the project, said: “It is really good having an outdoor classroom.

“When we do nature and wildlife studies we can stay outside for our discussion session instead of going back into school.

“When the weather is nice it’s good to be outdoors.”

Derek Sutherland, head teacher at the school, said: “This project has provided a wonderful learning opportunity that has allowed all of our children to be involved in a very positive change.”

English Martyrs’ became involved in the ‘superground’ programme with the help of Joanne Brown, a parent and PTA member.

She said: “As a parent and PTA member I know what a difference a playground like this makes to the lives of the children.

“English Martyrs’ RC Primary School’s dream has been turned into a reality.”

Mr Sutherland praised Mrs Brown for her “fantastic” dedication to the project, saying: “Her commitment will ensure that she has left us a legacy for the future.”

The RBS Superground programme has transformed 58 school grounds in Yorkshire and the Humberside area, and has provided a space to learn and play for over 200,000 children across the UK.

A survey of the 850 schools participating in the scheme showed nearly 80 per cent have reported changes in their teaching practices and are using the outdoor areas to take formal lessons.

Of the schools surveyed, 85 per cent observed more creative learning and better awareness of the environment.