New playground opened at special school

A new playground has opened at a thriving special school.

Primary pupils at Crosshill School in Salisbury Road, Darwen, are thrilled with the new facility.

It is part of continuing investment in the site by the Oak Learning Partnership.

In January 2022 Crosshill completed a £2million plus move from Blackburn Central High School to the vacant Sunnyhurst Centre.

In March 2023 it was given planning permission to extend its sixth form block to create a new classroom, two life skills rooms, a larger staff office and a new tarmac playground.

Now what was once a blank and uninspiring space has been transformed into a vibrant, engaging area designed to support the development of pupils’ physical and social skills.

It has new equipment encourages motor skill development, self-awareness, and confidence, providing a fun and inclusive environment where every child can thrive.

The project was funded by Oak Learning Partnership as part of a significant investment in the building, to ensure that the facilities promote positive learning experiences for the learners.

Headteacher Nicola Pemberton said: “It is an absolute delight to see the smiles on the faces of our learners, they are growing in confidence, experimenting with new movements and developing their communication all through play and movement.

“The children’s excitement says it all. ”

Neko exclaimed: “I like the monkey bars the best, it’s amazing… Thank you so much. I Love it!”

Akil shared: “I like the tunnel because I can play in it. I also like the hill because I can go up there.”

Leo R said:”I am so excited, it’s amazing,”

Laura Whittle, primary phase lead,said: “It has massively improved pupils’ engagement when outdoors with other pupils, staff and equipment.

“It was lovely to see the pupils’ initial reactions of excitement and awe!”

Oak Learning Partnership has also put a planning application in to Blackburn with Darwen Council for further improvements to the school.

It seeks approval for ‘Change of use from store rooms to new kitchen with installation of flue ducting and proposed extension of existing toilet block and access corridor’.