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On
site, the children benefit from spacious
indoor and outdoor classrooms, learning
technologies, sports areas, and a playground.
The school also hosts a nursery with excellent
facilities, outside classrooms, covered
areas, plus a pond, stream and fenced-off
area that are perfect for exploring nature.
"The
building is fantastic, the playground is
spacious and the facilities are excellent."
So said Debbie Kalynka, headteacher at Orchid
Vale Primary School, in the Haydon End area
of Priory Vale. "Our wireless network
also allows children to access laptops anywhere
in the school." As Debbie explained,
the school has progressed quickly since
last September: "We now have over 100
pupils, more than 50 children in nursery,
and the school is fast-becoming a focal
point for the Haydon End community."
The creative arts are playing a central
role at Orchid Vale. Tim Norris, appointed
by regional public art agency, Artpoint,
will be holding workshops with the children
for a large structure appearing in autumn,
while two artists - Emma Biggs and Jo Veevers
- are currently doing ceramics art with
pupils. The school's large wildlife area
will also soon enjoy a new lease of life.
"We recently won a £500 grant
which will be used to turn the area into
an attractive new place to learn. From the
staff and teachers to pupils, everyone is
enjoying Orchid Vale more by the day."
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