Woodland Area at School Transformed Thanks to Fundraising Campaign

A woodland area at St Mary’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Marple Bridge has been transformed into an inspiring outdoor learning space to help children connect with nature.

The ‘Dingley Dell’ has been officially opened at the school, thanks to the generous support and fundraising efforts of the school’s PTA.

The woodland has been developed to enrich the educational experience of every child at the school, with the addition of a new gateway providing direct access from the school field. 

There are also newly created steps leading into the woodland, encouraging children to explore the area.

Sarah Bradbury, the school’s EYFS and wellbeing lead, said that St Mary’s believes in a holistic education that nurtures the whole child.

She said: “Whether it is storytelling under the trees, scientific investigation, creative arts, or reflective quiet moments in nature, the Dingley Dell will serve as a vibrant extension of our classrooms.”

Pupil Rose said: “It will be an amazing adventure and exciting experience to learn about the wilderness.”

Mrs Bradbury thanked the PTA , landscape contractor Joe Williams, and the wider school community for their commitment and generosity in bringing this vision to life. 

Headteacher John Nish said: “We are incredibly proud to see Dingley Dell come to life and the opportunities it will provide for our children. My sincere thanks go to our PTA for their generosity and tireless fundraising; this is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through teamwork across our school family.”