Generous Gift Transforms Outdoor Learning

Pupils at Cockburn Reach Academy are enjoying a remarkable new outdoor learning space, thanks to a £20,000 donation from Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby. The funding has enabled the Leeds primary special school to create a woodland pathway, install a therapeutic swing, and develop a beautiful sensory garden – transforming how pupils learn and play outdoors. The new facilities are already making a significant difference to the school's pupils. The sensory garden provides a calm, engaging environment where children can read, explore nature, and develop their understanding of the world around them. 

The new facilities were officially opened by former Leeds Rhinos, England and Lions Rugby League and Rugby Union star, John Bentley, who is the Yorkshire Honorary President of the Wooden Spoon charity. He was joined by other members of the charity alongside pupils from the school.

"The sensory garden has become such a valuable space for our pupils," said Ali Quinn, Headteacher at Cockburn Reach Academy. "Children can use it for quiet reading time, and we've found it's also an excellent setting for meetings with parents – creating a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere for important conversations." 

The specially designed swing has proven particularly beneficial for pupils' wellbeing and development. The gentle motion helps children to regulate their emotions and manage their feelings, whilst also providing wonderful opportunities for social interaction and cooperative play. The new pathway through the woodland area has opened up exciting possibilities for outdoor learning, allowing pupils to safely explore nature and engage with their environment in all weathers. 

The school community is incredibly grateful to Wooden Spoon for their generous support. The £20,000 donation has created lasting resources that will benefit generations of pupils at Cockburn Reach Academy, supporting not only their academic learning but also their physical and emotional development. 

These improvements demonstrate the school's commitment to providing diverse, engaging learning environments that meet the needs of all pupils.