A project aimed at helping Wearside youngsters enjoy lessons outside has been officially opened by MP Julie Elliott.

Ms Elliott, MP for Sunderland Central, cut the ribbon on a £30k courtyard at Diamond Hall Infant Academy and said: “It was a very happy, and memorable, occasion.

“I thoroughly enjoyed reading with the students in the courtyard, as well as watching an outside lesson. Listening to the choir was a real highlight of the visit too.”

Work on the new courtyard began in October last year and, following its completion, the open-air space is to be used for a variety of outdoor lessons and activities.

“The courtyard is at the very heart our school, both physically and spiritually,” said headteacher Sally Collingwood.

“It is a lovely oasis of peace and quiet in the middle of our school which can be used for many purposes -; including as a study space, nature space and learning about growing and cooking food.

“The courtyard will enrich the provision for all of our children, and Julie was very interested in both the courtyard and the work of our school.”