Member Article

School's out for Leeds children - thanks to Ilkley property developer

The children in Year 4 at Low Road and Windmill Music Federation in Leeds had a very different day at school last week.

Instead of their usual classroom they spent the day at Nell Bank Outdoor Centre in Ilkley, taking part in a range of exciting activities. The award-winning activities and nationally significant inclusive facilities at Nell Bank make it a top choice for children to learn outside the classroom.

They spent the day in the grounds of Nell Bank, tackling a number of team-building challenges, having fun with adventurous games, and enjoying some freedom on the giant climbing and play area.

The Music Federation schools are situated in Belle Isle and Hunslet in South Leeds, and many of the group of 80 pupils had never been to Ilkley or the surrounding area.

The visit has been sponsored by Jeremy Nolan from Glentrool Capital Partners of Ilkley since June 2009. Jeremy is a keen supporter of the schools and makes regular visits to see them in South Leeds, usually after their visits to hear the stories of the children.

Executive Headteacher Sally Sumpner said: “Many of our children never get the opportunity to go far from their homes, so it is a main aim of the Federation to get them out and about and see something different to their own environment. Even just an hour’s drive away to Ilkley is a big change for many of them.

“When Jeremy first approached us several years ago about some sponsorship, we were delighted to accept. It is a credit to him that this has continued for so long, during which time no fewer than 360 children have enjoyed the visits and we would like to say a big thank you to him.”

Bruce Fowler, manager of Nell Bank, commented: “We were so pleased to welcome the children from Belle Isle and Hunslet to Nell Bank for the day. For many, the visit will have been transformational, as they won’t have seen the stunning Wharfedale countryside before.

“At Nell Bank, we look across the River Wharfe to the famous Ilkley Moor and to acres of oak and bluebell woods. The environment is a huge contrast to that of inner city Leeds and it was an absolute pleasure to see the undiluted joy on so many of the children’s faces. They also loved the many outdoor activities we offer here”.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Robert Beaumont .