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Foundation Funding Helps Oldham Pupils Go Outdoors

Foundation Funding Helps Oldham Pupils Go Outdoors

An Oldham school has received more than £2,700 from Jigsaw Foundation to help with equipment for outdoor learning.

Spring Brook Academy was presented with a £2,750 grant to buy outdoor clothing and the tools they need to gain full benefit when they attend Forest School where they build shelters, make garden ornaments and cook food.

Spring Brook Academy is a special school catering to pupils aged 4-11 with a range of social, emotional and mental health difficulties. Many have secondary needs, including autism spectrum disorder and speech/communication needs. Most have previously been excluded from school and 19% are in care.

The project aligns with Oldham residents’ wishes to see more community projects with both adults and young people.

Toni Thomason, Head of School said: “It’s amazing to receive this funding from the Jigsaw Foundation and we are so grateful. The comments we received from the residents who voted for our project were heartwarming to read. Jigsaw Homes children attend the school and will find the new equipment and waterproof clothing extremely beneficial to their outdoor learning activities. Our pupils love the freedom of outdoor learning, which helps them relax and focus and we see them cooperating, using language more easily and solving problems together.”

If you would like to learn more about Jigsaw Foundation and how to apply for funding, click here.