CHILDREN can now enjoy inspirational lessons outside the classroom whatever the weather.

Pupils at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Winsford have been kitted out in waterproof overcoats and trousers.

Every day youngsters take part in all sorts of exciting and inspirational activities through Forest School and Outside the Classroom but the weather often makes being outside challenging.

Headteacher Martine Gum said: "Whilst we like to say ‘there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!’ there are occasions when children are sent to school for outdoor learning activities without the necessary or appropriate clothing.

"To ensure that all children are able to participate in all aspects of our creative and exciting curriculum we wanted to invest in heavy duty waterproofs.

Northwich Guardian:

Henry Rowlinson, Jacob Whitney, Eddison Mitchell, Luke Wilkinson and, in front, Isabella Corteen in their new waterproofs

"With very generous funding from The Darnhall Exhibition Foundation and Friends of St Joseph’s PTA we have been able to purchase 60 sets of waterproof overcoats and trousers.

"This means that Forest School can take place whatever the weather!"

Outdoor education is used to enhance children’s learning experiences and is a significant part of the school's emotional literacy and well-being programme.

Taking pupils out of the classroom has been proven to help raise attainment and achievement, improve behaviour, learning and communication skills and increase pupils' confidence.

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St Joseph’s Forest School practitioners Ruth Sproston and Martyn Lewis are always looking at new and innovative ideas to develop the school’s outdoor learning opportunities and are seeking to create a cluster group for Forest School leaders to come together and share their ideas and experiences.