Second donation helps Essex school complete outside learning area

A primary school that works to give children from deprived backgrounds the very best start in life has welcomed a donation from our Essex region.

The donation, through the Community Champions scheme, has allowed the team at Sir Martin Frobisher Academy in Jaywick, near Clacton, to complete their new outdoor learning space.

Last year we handed over a cheque for £2,000 to fund the initial stage of the learning space, created outside the Year 1 classroom to help children transition from the play-based learning in Foundation to more formal learning.

This summer we donated a further £5,000 with the latest funding boost allowing the school to purchase further outdoor equipment that will enrich the pupil’s learning experience.

The school, which works with children from the deprived Jaywick Sands neighbourhood and has a greater than average number of in-year admissions, has seen huge improvements under Executive Head Teacher Simon Wood.

He and the team have worked to create an inspiring learning environment and raise the aspirations of the pupils, with the outdoor learning space being just one example of this. 

Simon Wood, Executive Head Teacher, said:

“We are delighted to have received a second round of funding from Persimmon Homes, this money has allowed us to complete the transformation of what was a neglected corner of the school and give the children a safe space to learn.”

Lousie Trail, Sales Director of Persimmon Homes Essex, said:

“It was a pleasure to meet the children at Sir Martin Frobisher and to see the improvements the team have made in recent years to improved attendance, attainment and, importantly, in raising aspirations.

“It is an honour to work with them as they continue on their journey.”

Cllr Dan Casey, Tendring District Councillor for West Clacton and Jaywick Sands, was a former governor of the school and joined for the presentation.

He said:

“Thank you to Persimmon for giving back to our community and supporting the school. This money has gone a long way in helping complete this area ready for the children’s return this September.”

Last year, Persimmon Homes Essex secured planning consent for Phases 1 and 2 of the Rouses Farm development in West Clacton. This will bring 417 much-needed new homes to the town, including 17 for shared ownership and 67 homes which will be offered for below market rent through a housing partner.