Gosport nursery will build outdoor classroom thanks to grant

Haven Nursery School and Children’s Centre in Gosport won the top prize as part of the supermarket chain’s new community scheme.

Sue Evans, nursery leader, said they were really happy with the grant which will be used to create an outdoor classroom.

‘We’re delighted to have received the cheque from Tesco,’ she said.

‘We are overwhelmed at the support of their customers.’

The money will be put towards improving training facilities and also an outdoor space in their forest area where children take part in activities.

Dawn White, from the forest school, added: ‘The provision of an outdoor classroom would enable continuous learning and availability of enrichment activities.

‘Children with additional needs can often struggle in adverse weather conditions.

‘An outdoor classroom would provide a more inclusive environment where they could still participate.’

The nursery won the grant as part of Tesco’s community project after receiving the most votes from customers in superstores across the area.

Fran Yardley whose three-year-old son Oliver attends Haven Nursery believes the money will go a long way.

She said: ‘Oliver has Down Syndrome and would benefit immensely by having an outdoor classroom due to his extra needs, giving him access to a more visual and tactile sensory experience.

‘It will make the forest more accessible, giving him a sense of freedom.

‘Oliver and all of the children thrive on the magical and inspiring experience the Haven Forest School gives them.’

Jamie Fagan, whose son Alexander, four, also attends Haven nursery said the new outdoor classroom will further enhance the nursery’s facilities.

‘Haven already has the forest school, which gets the children involved with nature and their environment,’ he said.

‘But the new classroom will mean that the children’s education is less weather dependent.’