New Outdoor Leisure Space Transforms Alnwick Specialist School
NorthumberlandChildren at Barndale House School in Alnwick are kicking off the new term with an exciting addition—a state-of-the-art outdoor learning and fitness environment, made possible by a generous £16,000 donation from Wooden Spoon Northumberland.
The funding has transformed the school’s previous outdoor games area into an inclusive play space, designed to cater to students of all abilities. Wooden Spoon Northumberland Chairman Iain Stewart expressed pride in the project, saying, “We first funded a playground at Barndale over 20 years ago. We’ve been delighted to return and pave the way for this much-needed extension to it, which will help children and young people reap the benefits of outdoor play and physical activity.”
Stewart highlighted the importance of creating a space accessible to all students, emphasizing how the new area will foster physical activity and enhance connections through play. “The idea was to create an outdoor space that would be accessible to every young person at the school, whatever their ability or age,” he said.
Francis Watson-Armstrong, President of Wooden Spoon Northumberland and of Bamburgh Castle, expressed his joy in supporting the project, stating, “It was wonderful seeing these young people putting their new outdoor space through its paces with such energy and enthusiasm while having fun at the same time.” He also emphasized the charity’s local focus, ensuring that all funds raised in Northumberland are used for projects benefiting children and young people within the county.
Barndale House School serves students up to the age of 19 who require specialist education. Headteacher Mark Phillips shared his appreciation for the continued support from Wooden Spoon Northumberland. “Our students are really reaping the benefits of having this equipment close at hand—helping them stay active and ready to learn,” Phillips said. “Outdoor play encourages physical activity, helping our pupils develop key motor skills, strength, and coordination, while also improving their overall wellbeing.”
Wooden Spoon Northumberland’s efforts continue to enrich the lives of children across the region, making a lasting impact on schools like Barndale House.
