HOPES to improve a school's outdoor Early Years space triggered the creation of a fundraiser.

Adderlane Academy, in Prudhoe, is a primary school with an outdoor Early Years space that was described as a 'real challenge', by headteacher Emma Potts.

She said the school's staff try hard to make it look inviting and spend a lot of time to make the environment engaging.

Hexham Courant: The fundraiser will provide new play equipment The fundraiser will provide new play equipment (Image: Supplied)

"We have dated play equipment that does not encourage the children to use their imagination, it is very prescriptive. We aim to offer the children the opportunity to be artists, engineers, problem solvers and team players. The equipment we have chosen (dreamed of) ensures that all areas of the curriculum are covered."

The school is asking local and national businesses to contribute to the fundraiser and help it afford the new equipment. The fundraiser target is £59,450.

Hexham Courant: Part of the new play equipment includes a construction hutPart of the new play equipment includes a construction hut (Image: Supplied)

"This is a project which is way beyond the realms of our school budget and we are really wanting to reach out to local businesses and the local community to help us reach our target.

"We all understand that it takes a village to raise a child and this is an opportunity for the community to support us in whatever way they can. If everyone donates a little hopefully we will get there. We recognise that it is a huge amount but we are developing the workforce for the future," Mrs Potts said.

Hexham Courant: Part of the new equipment includes a bespoke digging pitPart of the new equipment includes a bespoke digging pit (Image: Supplied)

Rebecca Kidd is the Early Years Lead at Adderlane Academy, and said the school 'would appreciate any contribution'.

She said: "We offer our children aged three to five an exciting curriculum and environment within Adderlane's Early Years unit. We are extremely lucky to have such kind, appreciative and caring children.

Hexham Courant: A bespoke mud kitchenA bespoke mud kitchen (Image: Supplied)

"Our children start school, on average, as working below age-related expectations due to high levels of deprivation and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

"We would love to improve our muddy, well-used and well-worn outdoor area to a new inviting, motivating and exciting outdoor learning environment," Mrs Kidd said. 

Adderlane Academy was rated as 'Good' by Ofsted inspectors in 2019.

Donate to the school's Crowdfunder fundraiser here.