Lainesmead has its own playing field, allotments, gardens and wooded area. The school has developed its grounds to provide a variety of different environments and landscapes, all designed to provide our children with extended opportunities for learning and play.

The Playing Field is used for sporting activities and, when dry, for play at break and lunchtimes. Both Key Stages have access to fixed playground climbing frames which help to develop fundamental skills such a balance and coordination. 

The Allotment Garden has a number of vegetable and fruit growing beds. Our team of volunteers keep the allotments tidy and up together in the winter months. Come Spring, Summer and Autumn volunteers and children plant, grow and harvest produce which is used in the school kitchen and lessons.

The Sensory Garden was planned and designed by pupils who wanted to create a peaceful and relaxing garden space for children with Special Educational Needs. The planting is fragrant and colourful, there is a calming water orb and artificial grass. Covered seating allows year round use.

Flowers in the Sensory Garden

The Wild Garden is home to a variety of wild flowers, a pond made from recycled Belfast sinks and a very luxurious Bug Hotel. Children from Key Stage 1 spend many exciting hours searching for mini beasts.

The Wood is natural and untamed with many wild birds and even a pair of woodpeckers being in residence. Time spent in the wood ignites the children’s imaginations and they are able to produce amazing descriptive writing after a visit to this area.

Forest Schools is taught in the wood for all children across the school. The Forest School theory takes a long term sustained approach to outdoor learning. Forest schools seek to encourage, motivate, engage and inspire children through positive outdoor experiences. Forest schools are closely entwined with the concepts of free flow play and learning from play.

We hope this gives you a flavour of our ethos as to how being involved with the outdoors plays such a great opportunity in supporting children to get the most out of their learning and time with us!