Two exciting strategic developments form a significant part of Project 24: Investing in our Future, the vision for securing long-term security and success for all our pupils, from the four-year-old joining Laxton Junior School in Reception to the eighteen-year-old preparing for life beyond Oundle School.
The developments at LJS, a new and innovative EYFS environment which places play at its heart as well as significant upgrades to our Science and Art facilities to support innovative STEAM education, were completed in summer 2022. Both investments have been made possible by a generous legacy from Sue Thomas who was Head of Laxton Junior School from 1989 to 2008.
Project 24: Investing in our Future
Our Reception 2022 children were the first to benefit from a new, state-of-the-art Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) space, designed specifically to place play at its heart through an innovative blueprint of connected indoor and outdoor areas. In Reception, children play, interact and learn in a constant flow, moving from one activity to another, sometimes of their own will and sometimes guided by a teacher. The design and use of space is therefore fundamental to a child’s development and this project has transformed the previous dual classrooms into a dynamic and zoned indoor learning space that flows seamlessly into an enlarged outdoor area. Sustainability is high on our agenda, and the new space makes use of natural eco-friendly materials, connecting with nature and the environment.
The second development has seen the renovation of both our Science Lab and Art Room to support STEAM education across all year groups. These spaces have been remodelled and resourced, including facilities for 3D printing and engineering. Oundle School is a world-leading provider of STEM education, and we are committed to offering an outstanding connection to this experience at LJS.
"We are hugely excited about bringing the power of play fully to life through a fantastic new Reception space and offering our pupils an outstanding connection to Oundle’s world-class STEM provision. We have always sought to provide an innovative and modern experience and, through every child will benefit from new opportunities that will enhance their love of learning and further prepare them for senior school and beyond.”Lydia Waller, Head
