A new play area was unveiled at a school today.

Elizabeth Barrett, headteacher of Nightingale Primary School in Ashbourne Avenue, South Woodford, cut the ribbon to the play area for reception class children, which includes a climbing frame and a storytelling area.

Ms Barrett, who is retiring at Easter after 16 years as head, said: "It is a really creative area for the children to play in and it will be an excellent addition to the school. There is lots for them to do and it will take lessons outside, which is important for the children."

The area, which took six weeks to build, was put together by Archers Landscape and funded by the school, the parent teacher association and Redbridge council.

Nightingale School, whose students' ages range from three to 11, recieved an 'outstanding' rating in its latest Ofsted inspection in February 2010, including an 'outstanding' rating in teaching.

Heather Mills, assistant headteacher, said: "It is what we have needed here and something that every child should have access to. It is an outstanding facility. There will be opportunities for the children to develop their physical needs and encourage outdoor learning."