Outdoor lessons to help learning

Pupils at Pott Row First School have been given all-weather jumpsuits

Pupils at a primary school in Norfolk have been given all-weather jumpsuits so they can have lessons outside, even in bad weather.

Pott Row First School, near King's Lynn, Norfolk, wants to provide half of all lessons outside within two years.

All 49 pupils have been given the suits said headteacher Michelle Petzer.

She said the move followed staff comments that the children were much happier and found it easier to concentrate out in the fresh air.

"We realised the children worked much better and were happier if they had been outside during the day," she said.

"If the children hadn't been outside, perhaps because it was raining, members of staff would say 'they are not listening because they have not had the chance to run around'.

Staff said pupils found it easier to concentrate out in the fresh air

"We realised that it is essential for the pupils to have the opportunity to play outdoors no matter what the weather conditions.

"As a result we have purchased all-in-one raincoats for every single pupil in our school. Now when it rains the pupils don their jumpsuit raincoats and wellies and head out to play as usual."

Mrs Petzer said staff and parents had been extremely supportive of the idea.

"A number of parents have said how much happier their child is and how they are so enthusiastic about coming to school," she said.

The school, which caters for children aged between four and eight, is now looking for a sponsor to help raise funds for a log cabin where the youngsters can enjoy lessons.