A PRIMARY school in Darlington is appealing for typewriters, teapots and telephones to build an “inspiring and imaginative” outdoor space ahead of children returning to school.

Early years head Carly Egglestone is reimagining Red Hall Primary’s outdoor space by creating a fire pit, calm area and a tree of wonder alongside an outdoor workspace.

The nursery teacher is looking for a range of “weird and wonderful” things to add to the outdoor space that will pique the curiosity of all ages.

She said: “We have an inquiry-based approach to learning where we ask the children and follow their lead. They learn through asking questions, that’s how they make sense of the world.

“The outdoor space will be an inspiring and engaging environment where they can make potions or time machines.

"We have had a very kind bricklayer give us some of his time to create us a fire pit too, which we are very appreciate of, as well as all the hard work from staff."

Ms Egglestone believes this creative space will enhance traditional subjects like maths and English as children will write down their adventures and measure materials.

Instead of having plastic toys, Red Hall promotes sustainability and uses natural or upcycled materials in school, such as pine cones and conkers.

As a result, it is appealing for old items, such as cassettes or records, to bring about a sense of awe.

Ms Egglestone added: "Our aim is to have something that really sparks wonder and curiosity and engages children in learning.

"We very much believe in children leading their own learning and following interests and fascinations they have. We want to have a school of doers, thinkers, investigators and explorers. We love children to ask questions, any objects which bring curiosity would be amazing."

This could be old telephones, typewriters, laptops or computer equipment, kettles, metal teapots or jugs, any brass or metal objects such as bowls, plates, keys, bird cages, bird feeders, vases, clocks, old perfume bottles, old recorders, videos, cassette tapes, mirrors, old paintings, vinyls and random items such as horseshoes and anchors for a workshop area and for early years.

Children currently in school have also been asked for their ideas, and to design an outdoor space, in an attempt to cater to all year groups.

To donate items, drop them off at the school or organise a collection.