Children at a Watford primary school will be getting close to nature after the grand opening of a new outdoor classroom.

Pupils at Kingsway Infant School, in North Approach, gave Mayor Dorothy Thornhill a tour of the new pond, exploration tables and wildlife area yesterday (Thursday).

Work to build the new outdoor area was completed by men and women taking part in the Community Payback scheme, led by the Hertfordshire Probation Service.

They worked at the school on Saturdays over the past 18 months, building walls, planters and a pond area. And when the weather forced the crew indoors, they painted every classroom.

The group also replaced fencing and laid artificial turf.

Headteacher Caroline T-Walmsley said: “We're going to use the classroom for nature studies, looking at bugs, and also as a teaching area.

“We're really into outdoor learning. The children learn very well outdoors. They get excited and enjoy it, particularly the boys and very creative or scientific girls. The results speak for themselves.”

She added: “We are particularly proud that all the work on the classroom has been carried out by the Community Payback scheme. None of these young men and women have chosen to be here. However, they really made a difference to the children at this school. I hope the new Government carry on supporting schemes like this.”