The Blackpool school where a wigwam is new outdoors

For instead of the traditional wooden structure, this new extension to the South Shore school is a 6.5 metre tall wigwam.

The latest addition to the Forest School development won’t be used until next term but was officially unveiled by MP Scott Benton on his first visit to the Langdale Road school to meet headteacher Samantha Upton and to see the learning bubbles in action.

Samantha said: “Education is about so much more than the classroom and this project was the perfect opportunity to extend our curriculum opportunities and enrichment activities.”

She added: “We have been thinking of how we could extend our provision even further outdoors for a while now so are delighted to be able to develop our ever-growing forest school area whilst also creating the perfect, unique and inspiring learning environment for all of our children.”

The head said all subjects, including Forest School activities, will be able to take place in the teepee as it can comfortably hold 30 children and four adults at a time .

She added: “It is a wonderful space for children to work with the school’s therapy dog, Fudge, especially before or after the children have taken her for a walk”.

John Topping, the Fylde Coast Academy Trust community relations and estates lead said: “The extra space will enable the school to extend their curriculum provisions even further, especially in light of the current covid-19 regulations.”

He added: " Across the trust we are encouraging our primary schools to develop outdoor learning for all FCAT youngsters. Activities outside of a normal classroom environment have been shown to boost academic performance as well as improve social and personal skills.

"This fuller sense of freedom allows young minds to develop creativity within nature, problem-solving, independence, confidence and ultimately personal well-being. We are extremely grateful to Scott Benton MP for visiting Mereside Primary and opening this brilliant addition to outdoor learning."