Buttercross Pre-School in Bingham has set up a brand-new mud kitchen following support from its local community.
David Wilson Homes donated £300 to Buttercross Pre-School to support its efforts to create an outdoor learning environment for its children.
The developer, which is building new homes close to the pre-school at its Romans’ Quarter community, backed the bid to create an exciting outdoor learning space featuring a bespoke mud kitchen area, complete with a newly installed kitchen unit, sink, oven and utensils.
Leanne Taylor, Deputy Manager at Buttercross Pre-School, said: “The development of our mud kitchen will provide endless opportunities for holistic learning and exploration for our pre-school children. It encourages open-ended, messy and imaginative play, allowing children to freely explore, experiment and create.
“The space promotes creativity and sensory exploration while supporting physical development, communication and social interaction.”
Using sustainable and natural resources, the pre-school transformed a cable drum and tree stumps into a rustic table and seating area, creating an inviting environment for imaginative outdoor play.
Drawing on the natural environment, the children use resources such as herbs, bark and fallen leaves to inspire their play, creating imaginative recipes, potions and sensory experiences. Through collaborative role play and shared exploration, children develop language skills, confidence, independence and problem-solving abilities.
Leanne added: “Our mud kitchen also helps foster a strong connection with nature, encouraging children to develop curiosity, respect and appreciation for the outdoor environment through meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.
“Alongside Davis Wilson Homes, a fantastic range of community groups and local businesses came together to support the project, including a generous £200 donation from Payroc, a delivery of materials from John A Stephens Ltd and £100 donated from the Bingham Safari Sale. Topping this up was our hugely successful Easter raffle fundraiser, with Vale Clearances and our wonderful local community donating an incredible 133 Easter eggs, while parents, family and friends got behind the cause by purchasing raffle tickets – helping us raise £681.97!”
John Reddington, Managing Director at David Wilson Homes East Midlands, said: “We were thrilled when Buttercross Pre-School approached us to support its mud kitchen project. Outdoor learning experiences are invaluable for young children and we hope they can now make the most of their new facilities in the warmer weather.
“A large number of families are now living at our Romans’ Quarter development in Bingham and it’s important to us to invest in the schools on their doorstep.”
