Students at Priory School in Southsea have had a major upgrade to their outdoor space, creating an area that encourages exercise, socialising and creativity.

The upgrade was funded by Portsmouth City Council and was designed by the council’s in-house landscape architects. It includes a variety of seating spaces and space for team games, all with accessibility and sustainability as a priority. Students and teachers at Priory School worked with the team to design and develop the space.

With a growing student population of over 1,280, Priory School faced challenges with limited and difficult-to-maintain outdoor areas. Much of the space was inaccessible due to flooding, and the existing layout didn’t support the needs of students during breaks or outdoor learning.

Now, the newly designed outdoor area offers a range of features that support both learning and leisure. Flood-resistant planting beds have been introduced to help manage rainwater sustainably, reducing waterlogging and easing pressure on the local sewer system.

Accessibility has been significantly improved, with ramps replacing steps where possible and more pathways formed to allow smoother, safer movement around the school. A refurbished amphitheatre provides a welcoming venue for after-school performances and outdoor lessons, while a new basketball post encourages games during breaks.

To aid social interaction, the school added an enclosed dining area before the project started, giving students a sheltered space to eat and connect. Around the perimeter of the school grounds, smaller seating areas are available.

A current student shared: “It’s so nice to have places to sit and chat with friends, and the new basketball post is great. The school feels more open and fun now.”

Portsmouth firm Reds Builders worked on the project, and the team included former Priory pupils. Paul Lewis, Project Manager said: “To work in the school that I and others from Reds attended growing up and have so many fond memories of, has been a privilege. It has been great to witness and help contribute to the improvements the school is making for future generations of pupils, so they can create their own happy memories there.”

Councillor Nick Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said: “It’s fantastic to see our continued commitment to funding and improving local schools. These upgrades are tailored to the students and not only improve accessibility but also give them more opportunities to socialise, stay active, and enjoy fresh air throughout the day. Watching young people enjoy these improvements, make the most of the new space, and take genuine pride in their school shows exactly why this funding matters”

Stewart Vaughan, Head teacher of Priory Secondary School, added: “This project has made a huge difference to our school community. The new outdoor areas are not only more functional but also more welcoming. It is so important to make these building projects happen because it says to our children that they matter.”