The funding has been made to the school’s Parent Council, known as ‘Our Family Hive’ and will help finance the development of an outdoor area where pupils and staff can participate in a variety of educational activities.

Persimmon Homes North Scotland technical director Sarah Carruthers visited the school to meet with head teacher Gemma Kennedy and members of Family Hive to gain more knowledge about their plans for the new educational space. 

Carruthers said: “Outdoor learning can give children a fantastic opportunity to learn in a different environment, develop new skills and enjoy the space around them. 

“It was also lovely to meet the staff, pupils and parents and see the difference that local support is already making at the school.”

Parent and Family Hive member Angela McKay said: “As parents, we know what difference this outdoor structure will make for Banchory Primary School.”

Head Teacher Gemma Kennedy said: “At Banchory, we are passionate about creating opportunities for our children to learn, play and thrive both inside and outside the classroom, and this funding brings our plans for a dedicated outdoor learning space another step closer to becoming a reality.

“We are very fortunate to have such a committed Family Hive and supportive local community, and this is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when our school, families and local businesses work together for the benefit of our children.”

The funding was made via Persimmon Homes’ Community Champions initiative, which delivers funding to help community groups, charities and organisations in the areas where the housebuilder is active.