A NEW parent and toddler group has launched at Walwayne Court Primary School, providing pre-school children an opportunity to explore the natural world with their parents.

The Owlets Forest School Toddler Group, which is based in the garden of the school in Trowbridge, was set up by mum Clare Pike, who has two children at Walwayne Court School.

She launched the group up to provide a chance for parents with young children to get together and get to know each other before their children started at the school.

The group, which takes place every Wednesday during term time from 9.30am-11.30am, is based entirely outside and gives children a chance to play and explore in the garden.

Mrs Pike said: “I have children at Walwayne School and I was approached by another parent who felt it would be good to have a group for parents with children at pre-school age.

“We wanted to have a group where parents and the children would be able to get to know each other before the youngsters start school as it would benefit the local community.

“I believe that children need to learn outside and enjoy the natural environment, which is why we are based entirely outside. So far we have around 30-40 children and parents come along to the first two groups.

“It has been very well received and it is clear that there was a need. It’s an opportunity for children to play, explore and get messy and if the weather is particularly bad there is an outside classroom for us to use.”

The cost to join the group is £2.50 for the first child and £1 for up to two further children. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/owletstoddlergroup