A new play area has opened at Hookstone Chase Primary School in Harrogate.

The new equipment is part of investment the school is making in facilities especially for reception age children.

The school is part of Northern Star Academies Trust, which runs four primary schools in Harrogate.

Constructed from natural timber to reflect the school’s commitment to the environment, the play area gives children a new learning space to get physical and creative – with a water stream, sand play and jungle planters.

A new shelter offers a place to act out plays, have outdoor lessons, or even an alfresco story time.

The play area is the first part of a development plan for the school being led by new headteacher, Joe Cooper, who joined the academy at the start of September.

Headteacher, Joe Cooper, tries out the new outdoor learning area.

Mr Cooper said:

“Learning should be engaging and fun – whether it’s inside the classroom or outside it.

“Our new play area for our youngest children is a safe place where they can let their imaginations run free. Whether children want to run and climb or play quietly with friends in specially created seating areas, there is something for everyone.  Outdoor play is a great way for children to build social skills and friendships”.

Jenn Plews, chief executive of Northern Star Academies Trust, said:

“Learning outdoors is an important part of the curriculum in every Northern Star Academy.  Getting outside has benefits for children’s wellbeing and health, as well as their learning”.

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Hookstone Chase Primary School in Harrogate is set to welcome a new headteacher this term.

Joe Cooper joins from All Saints’ Primary School in Ilkley where he spent three years as deputy headteacher.

Mr Cooper settled in Harrogate in 2005 from London. He has since developed his career in North Yorkshire, with short periods teaching in New Zealand and as a music specialist.

Mr Cooper said:

“It is a great privilege to have been asked to lead Hookstone Chase Primary School.  We have a proud history as an inclusive school for all children – with space for everyone to grow and develop their knowledge, skills and abilities.

“Straight away this term we will be opening a brand new outdoor play and learning area for our youngest children who are just joining us. We are a school that is investing in the future.”

Mr Cooper shares a ukulele lesson with pupils. Pic: John Furlong

Hookstone Chase is part of the Northern Star Academies Trust, which includes four other Harrogate schools, as well as schools in Skipton and Keighley.

Its other Harrogate schools are Harrogate High School, New Park Primary Academy School, Starbeck Primary Academy and Willow Tree Community Primary School.

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Craig Goold, chair of Hookstone Chase’s local governing body, said:

“Joe has hit the ground running.  It’s going to be a busy year ahead.  Joe has a huge amount of energy and drive. We are definitely a school that is going places in 2023.”

Jenn Plews, chief executive at Northern Star Academies Trust, said:

“It is great to have Joe on board. Joe has really embraced our trust’s deep commitment to sustainability, the environment and outdoor learning. He is just the kind of creative leader that schools need to bring education to life”.