A Wolverhampton centre which has provided unique outdoor learning for thousands of city children for almost a century has been unveiled as a trust.

Type=image;ImageID=4532;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=The Mayor of Wolverhampton planting the Kingswood Rose;TitleClass=strong;

The Kingswood Trust, in Holyhead Road, Kingswood, was officially opened by The Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Mike Heap.

Kingswood, which started life as an open air school before becoming a nursery and infant centre, now operates as an independent trust.

To mark the occasion, a Kingswood Rose was planted in the centre garden whilst guests were given a tour of the environmental and outdoor learning facilities.

Kingswood, which was set up 91 years ago, provides safe residential facilities for young people and aims to engage learners of all ages in adventurous and environmental learning.

It features a number of facilities including natural play spaces, two ponds, a log garden, bird hide, meadow, grass and wild areas.

It is home to many species of trees, shrubs, and plant life which provide shelter and food for a large population of woodland creatures.

Councillor Phil Page, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Schools, Skills and Learning, said: "This is another major landmark in the history of this unique centre.

"But while Kingswood now operates as a trust, it will continue to provide the vital services for all Wolverhampton schools that it has always done.

"We look forward to continue working with Kingswood and ensuring children and young people reap the benefits of its services for many more years to come."

Rachel Wells, head of the centre said," I feel hugely optimistic about the future of our centre. We are extremely well supported by our Wolverhampton and local community.

"It is a wonderful environment in which all children and their families can thrive. Learning is first hand and memorable and the outdoors is a tonic for health and wellbeing."

  • released: Friday 20 June, 2014