A SCHOOL is celebrating after winning a top award for its play facilities.

Around £22,000 has been spent improving the outdoor areas at St Bede’s Primary School in Sacriston in recent years.

The most recent was the addition of the Garden of Curiosities, which includes sand and water facilities, a storytelling area and sensory features.

The school secured almost £10,000 in lottery funding and the garden is expected to be officially opened after Easter.

The improvements have earned the school a platinum Outdoor Play and Learning Award (OPAL) award.

Headteacher Eve Alderson said: “It is incredible to get this award. We are thrilled.

Other improvements, funded with around £12,000 in grants from Durham County Councillors include a climbing trail, traversing poles, running track and a prayer garden.

Mrs Alderson said: “The changes make such a difference.

“We have seen an improvement in behaviour and in the quality of play so it has a huge effect and impact on everything.”