Two leading construction firms have joined forces recently to bring a local Templecombe school’s vision of an outdoor classroom area to life.

Teams from Tilia Homes Western and Morgan Sindall worked together to build a brand-new shelter for pupils at Abbas and Templecombe Primary School, on School Lane.

The space will be used to support the school’s full curriculum programme, as well as a cool place to enjoy outdoor activities during the warmer weather.

James Webb, headteacher at Abbas and Templecombe Primary School, comments: “We are very pleased with our new outdoor classroom. This forms a crucial element in the development of our outdoor learning spaces, giving a space for children to engage with outside activities even during very wet or hot weather.

“It is large enough for a whole class to engage in meaningful experiential learning and to be used as a base for whole school outdoor activities. Thank you so much to Tilia Homes and Morgan Sindall for this exceptional gift - many children, over many years, will benefit.”

According to research, there are several mental and physical benefits associated with outdoor learning in early education. Studies have shown that children participating in outdoor learning activities have better motor skills, coordination, and balance, as well as being in nature can reduce stress and increase happiness. Exposure to natural light can also regulate sleep patterns, which can positively impact children’s mental health.

Emma Cotterill, Sales and Marketing Director for Tilia Homes Western, comments: “We’re delighted to have worked with Morgan Sindall to make a real difference to the children of Abbas and Templecombe Primary School and hope that generations to come – including those moving into our Knights Meadow development – enjoy the outdoor space for many years to come.

“As a community-focused homebuilder, we have invested in local infrastructure and facilities, including more than £100,000 toward youth and offsite play areas, £450,000 towards pre-school and primary education, as well as almost £15,000 toward public transport.”

Jason Gifford, Contracts Manager, Morgan Sindall Construction added: “Creating inspiring places for people to learn which will have a positive impact is a key driver. Schools are at the heart of local communities and ensuring they can offer the very best amenities from both an education and pastoral point of view is vital. Working together with Tilia Homes, it was our pleasure to be able to provide an enjoyable outdoor learning environment for the school to enjoy for many years to come.”

To find out more about homes at Knights Meadow, please call 01963 650 004.

The development is already proving popular with buyers in the area, having sold several homes already. Buyers are citing the sought-after location, excellent deals and high-quality homes as just a number of reasons that have sealed the deal in making the move to Cashmere Park.

The unveiling of the four-bedroom Cliveden will give prospective buyers an opportunity to see what life could be like living at the beautiful development. The home boasts spacious bedrooms, with a spacious kitchen/dining area and a separate living room with double doors leading out to the garden, a utility and study complete the ground floor. Upstairs, meanwhile, there is a main bedroom featuring an en suite, three further bedrooms and a family bathroom.

“We understand that we’re building more than just properties in South Molton, but a real community where people can make memories and start the next chapter of their lives, which is why we place a great emphasis on investing in the areas in which we build and we look forward to seeing people start the next chapter of their lives at Cashmere Park over the coming months,” Emma adds.