ADVENTUROUS pupils at Reed First School can now get to grips with some new state-of-the-art play equipment. The school s antiquated climbing frame has been replaced by new equipment, including a climbing frame, a slide, and a set of monkey bars. Head tea

ADVENTUROUS pupils at Reed First School can now get to grips with some new state-of-the-art play equipment.

The school's antiquated climbing frame has been replaced by new equipment, including a climbing frame, a slide, and a set of monkey bars.

Head teacher Alison Thomas said: ""The aim of the school is not only to prepare pupils academically for the outside world, but to encourage social interaction, physical development and achievement of goals.

"Playtime is just as important as classroom activities and this equipment encourages all of these."

The purchase and installation of the new playground has been funded by Friends of Reed School, who have had a busy year of fundraising.

A spokesman for the group said: "The additional purchase of a play bike and side-car was made by the parents of pupils who left Reed for pastures new at the end of the summer term.

"Reed School would like to specially thank them; Sara and David Willis-Wright, Cathy and Clive Byles, and Julie and Steve Grieves for the donation, and Gary Smith for clearing the site ready for installation.

"Thanks also to Playground Services, who supplied the equipment and who have kindly donated a "springy" motorbike for raffle purposes," she said.