A PRESCHOOL in Figheldean won a national award at the end of last month.

Brambles Preschool won the award for 'Best Outdoor Learning Environment' at the National Nursery Recognition Awards on January 26.

The preschool opened in 2011 and has "[always] celebrated the outdoors and natural learning environment."

Bev Budd, manager of the school, said she "believes that children learn best through authentic experiences", and added: "when staff are focused on meeting the child’s needs through their own interests, thoughts and feelings, that is when children learn at their best."

Rachel Busby, business manager and special educational needs coordinator, said: "We have very minimal plastic in our environment, giving the children the opportunity to experience real life experiences.

"We aim to offer children an outdoor learning environment in which to play and explore the surroundings around them.

"Our aim is to make the most of the British weather, using it as a learning opportunity and enhancing a child’s development through first hand experiences."

Go to bramblespreschool.org for more information.