A number of residents are outraged that Shenley Primary School is about to lose an “absolutely critical resource” with a large section of the woodland being used to enlarge current garden space.
A petition that has been set up on Change.org has received more than 1,000 signatures in under 24 hours.
Ellie Crucefix started the petition on June 12. It says: “At a time when the education of all children is incredibly fragile, we must not let this happen. The space currently allows Forest School lessons to take place.
“It houses physical play equipment and there are vegetable patches, natural habitats and various other learning spaces for children of our community to learn and grow.”
In a June newsletter from Shenley Primary School, headteacher Kate Fiddler acknowledged that this will be disappointing news for many.
She said: “A couple of weeks ago, we were advised that unfortunately there is a very strong possibility that we will be losing a sizeable area of land at the rear of the school.
“This land is where our raised beds, mud kitchen, Forest School storage and the Wildwood Den are situated, and it will affect where we do our Forest School teaching.
“I understand that this will be disappointing news to hear, especially during the current climate. We use the area daily and with the social distancing guidelines and advice to carry out more outdoor learning, unfortunately we will have a much-reduced outdoor space to use.
“This may also affect our ability to admit more children back before the end of term but as I have said, I will update you on this as soon as I know.”
Shenley Parish Council and Hertsmere Borough Council have been approached for a comment.
To read or sign the petition, head to change.org and search “Save Shenley School Field”.
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