APPRENTICES from Wessex Water have built a new outdoor classroom for a Trowbridge primary school.

The facility at St John’s Catholic Primary School in Wingfield Road was designed and built as part of the Brathay Apprentice Challenge, a national competition in which teams work together to raise awareness of apprenticeships as a viable career route.

Wessex Water chief executive Colin Skellett performed the official opening alongside the nine-strong team, staff, parents and pupils.

Erica Pagan, business manager at St John’s Primary School, said: “The project is fantastic and the children’s learning will be greatly enhanced by having a shelter to use when taking part in outdoor lessons.

“The bridge is much stronger and now provides safe access to the wildlife area. The insect-attracting plants have enhanced the project too.”

The project was led by engineering and construction apprentices Harriet Dal Din and Alistair Lloyds, who decided to build a learning shelter for the children – complete with a new bridge to the school’s wildlife area and plants that attract insects.

Wessex Water’s apprenticeship manager Becca Thurston said: “We’re immensely proud of the project carried out by the apprentices – from design to final build it has all been their own concept and work.

“There is great potential in the apprentices and we’ve been astonished by their dedication, commitment and ability so early in their careers.”