IT wasn't just the sun shining brightly when an Ellesmere Port primary school hosted its first open day, as pupils also showcased their talent.

Headteacher Dr Victoria Carr was keen to show prospective new parents, current parents, and members of the local community all the work that the children across Woodlands Primary School have been doing; as well as the refurbished Early Years environment and plans for further extensive developments in the coming weeks and led the tour with Sue Moss, school bursar.

The tour began with an introduction to newly proposed road closures on Eddisbury Road, which will begin this Thursday as part of the national ‘School Streets’ initiative. Cheshire West and Chester Council had closed the road on Saturday morning in order to erect the signage that tells all road users about this road safety measure. 

Children in Reception were all engaged in a range of activities that exemplified ‘continuous provision’ learning that children are used to - outdoor play enjoying using diggers and construction materials, indoors where they made biscuits, and used mirrors to create portraits, and reading in one of the new reading dens that Dr Carr had finished sewing last week. 

Chester and District Standard: Woodlands Primary School pupils were seen enjoying playground games.

All of the adult visitors were blown away by the ‘Scandi feel’ of the décor and Dr Carr discussed plans to continue this throughout school.

All of the young visitors were most impressed with the dinosaurs, the tunnel, talk of the two-storey fort that is making its way into the Early Years, and the painting opportunities!

The tour continued through Years 1 and 2 where teachers were engaged with children learning maths games using playground markings outside, ‘smores and den creating in the forest school area, computing and music. 

Dr Carr explained that this year they have had a toddler group, Saplings, running in one of the purpose-made rooms which had been a “great addition to the community and a place where carers can come for a cuppa and a chat whilst babies and toddlers play safely with others”.

The hall on the infant site was all set up for Monday’s breakfast club, which Dr Carr explained to parents would be run internally by school as of September, although is provided by an external company currently. Further details will be shared in the next week with parents.

Deputy Head Sharon Liversey and SENDCo Alice Morphet led the second half of the tour where parents and children could see the progression in the children’s work displayed on the walls. The junior children were displaying computing and art skills with expert teachers, plus their PE and Commando Joe problem solving skills outside.

Chester and District Standard: Woodlands Primary School hosted its first open day on Saturday.

School staff were delighted with newly planted and slate covered planters in full bloom. 
Woodlands have been shortlisted as finalists in the Standard's ‘School of the Year’ award, not to mention Mrs Morphet, who has been shortlisted in the National SENDCo of the Year award!

Dr Carr said simply being shortlisted is a huge testament to the work that goes on at school and was really touched by an ex-parent who nominated them.

Chester and District Standard: Gus the Woodlands Primary School dog.

As for the hero of the day, that award had to go to Gus, the school dog, being fussed over by all of the visitors as she welcomed them at the front door.

Tours of the school will continue every Monday after school until the end of term. For more information, call Mrs Moss on 0151 329 3164.