The official opening of this revitalised space was a moment of immense pride for Paula Jones and the entire Roscoe Primary community. As she addressed the gathered crowd, her words echoed the journey of transformation and the bright future ahead.

Paula acknowledged the deep-rooted connection between the school and the community, highlighting the presence of local Councillor Billy Lake, who attended the school in 1963.

"Roscoe has always been a happy place and a happy school. I came here, my children came here, and now my grandchildren are here." - Cllr. Billy Lake

The Butterfly Forest, she emphasised, was more than just a physical space; it was a symbol of growth and change. "Today is a celebration of transformation, much like the journey of the beautiful butterflies that we hope will soon call this place home."

This exciting project was made possible through the invaluable support of the Northern Schools Trust (NST), who recognised the potential of this natural resource and worked tirelessly with the school to bring their vision to life.

"NST saw the potential in this and supported us all the way in getting it back on its feet with the children," says Headteacher Paula Jones.

The journey began with the woodland at "ground zero," as Paula describes it. Overgrown and unsafe, the area required significant work. NST arranged for specialists to assess the site, remove unsafe trees, and conduct a thorough risk assessment. The ground was then cleared, creating a blank canvas for development.

With the support of the school's caretaker, Dave, the woodland began to take shape. Pathways were carved through the space, and beautiful seating areas were crafted from fallen logs, creating inviting spaces for learning and reflection. So far, bird boxes have been installed, bug hotels are on their way, and butterfly habitats are planned. The school is even exploring introducing bees.

Paula's vision for the space was clear: a magical, vibrant environment where nature and imagination could flourish. "We've worked hard to create a magical, vibrant space where nature and imagination come alive."

Addressing the children, she encouraged them to embrace the wonders of their new outdoor classroom. "Children, I hope you're ready to explore, learn, and be amazed. Keep your eyes open—you never know when a bright winged friend might flutter by to say hello!"

The school is working with Liam from the Park Urban Farm and City Farm to develop the educational potential of the space. The revitalised woodland is now fully integrated into Roscoe's curriculum, with every class having dedicated time to explore and learn within this natural setting. "We've rewritten our curriculum," Paula explains, "so every single class will be using this space."

Beyond the school gates, Roscoe is committed to opening the woodland to the wider community, with local mother and baby groups and children's centres expressing interest.

Paula expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to the project. "We're so grateful for everyone who made this possible—This forest isn't just a place to visit, but a place to grow, just like the butterflies it's named after."

The development of the woodland is an ongoing project. Roscoe has ambitious plans to create defined learning areas for subjects like building, art, science, and geography, mirroring the curriculum and maximising educational opportunities. "We really want to kind of expand and have it replicate our curriculum," Paula says.

The official opening of the woodland was a resounding success, with children eagerly exploring. "Thank you all for being here to share this special moment with us. Now, without further ado, let's officially open the Butterfly Forest and let the magic begin!" Paula declared, marking the culmination of their hard work and the beginning of a new chapter for Roscoe Primary.

"Today has been absolutely wonderful," Paula shares.

"It's just amazing to see the excitement of the children... their eagerness to get into the forest school, explore, walk the pathways, have a good look at the different areas, sit on the log seats. They're really getting stuck in."