A NEW outdoor learning environment has been officially opened at a Kidderminster primary school.

The new play area at Franche Community Primary School, in Chestnut Grove, includes a bouldering wall, wigwams, ropes, a slide, tunnels, a mud kitchen and a water zone.

Worcestershire County Council chairman, Councillor Anne Hingley, performed the official ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the opening of the play area, accompanied by year one pupils.

Cllr Hingley, who is also a governor at the school, said: "I was very privileged to be invited to open the new play facilities.

"It is a wonderful learning space for the children and staff."

Covered in brightly coloured artificial safety surface, the new age appropriate equipment features a wealth of play and learning opportunities suitable for children between the ages of two and 11.

Headteacher Val Weddell-Hall said the play area was designed in collaboration with the children, who had given it a resounding thumbs up.

She added: "They love it.

"The lower school play area had been there for many years and was tired and unappealing - this new play area is fantastic.

"It compliments the other outdoor facilities at the school, including our own forest school, tree house, field and playgrounds.

"The school site is also home to a popular holiday and after school club, as well as a community children's centre, and the new outdoor learning environment will be used by all groups."