One a cold day in February, there was a real sense of celebration at our Infant and Junior School as the ribbon was metaphorically cut on our brand new outdoor play additions.

The Mud Kitchen, Sandpit with Diggers and an impressively large Outdoor Chess Set were officially declared open, much to the delight of the children. Creative concoctions were swiftly underway, construction sites sprang up in the sand, and strategic masterminds gathered around the chessboard. We were reliably informed that the Mud Kitchen worked particularly well in the rain – a reassuring endorsement, given the British climate.

These additions were not chosen lightly. In true Abbey Gate fashion, they were selected thoughtfully and collaboratively by our IJS leadership team, the children and our wonderfully hardworking PTA. The result is outdoor provision that blends imagination, teamwork and good old fashioned play – the sort many of us remember fondly.

Our PTA, together with the wider parent body, plays an invaluable role in supporting the enriching extras that make daily life at IJS so special. Their commitment, creativity and community spirit ensure that opportunities like this continue to enhance our children’s school experience.

If you would like to be part of this positive and proactive group, we would be delighted to welcome you. Please do get in touch via infantjunioradmin@abbeygatecollege.co.uk. Many hands, as ever, make light work – and in this case, rather splendid playgrounds too.