LEARNING outside has given children a new lease of life.

A new forest school has been created at Ditton Primary School in Widnes, thanks to a £8,100 Awards for All grant from the Big Lottery Fund.

Teachers were inspired to develop their own woodland classroom after pupils enjoyed a trial session at Wigg Island in Runcorn.

Reception teacher Lauren Willis said: “We were overwhelmed at how the children responded. They really enjoyed it.

“It had such an impact on their social, personal and emotional needs, we wanted to adopt one for our school.

“Taking them out of the traditional setting enables children to come into their own. It improves their confidence and self esteem.”

Hands-on learning experiences enable pupils to explore and discover nature and the environment.

Practical team work helps them to develop positive relationships and leadership qualities.

The funding has paid for equipment, resources and staff training.

Miss Willis, who has been specially trained, said: “We’ve got a lovely log circle and a fire pit.

“Children can toast marshmallows and make nature crowns and woodland cookies.

“It’s a chance for them to become familiar with the natural world around them.

“There’s an element of freedom children used to enjoy when they could play out in the street.

“But they do this safely, within boundaries.”

She plans to launch after school clubs and invite parents to become part of the children’s learning.

All pupils take part in an action packed programme and toddlers from the adjacent nursery come once a week.

The school in Liverpool Road also plans to share their forest school with youngsters from a neighbouring children’s centre.