Last year, the Harrison Foundation provided funding to help the school develop a new outdoor cooking and fire pit area, giving pupils a safe, creative space to learn hands-on life skills all year round. The donation funded an all-weather shelter, allowing staff to plan outdoor lessons in any season, something especially valuable for children who thrive in sensory, practical environments.
During his visit, Daniel met with headteacher Sue Fisher, members of the teaching team and several pupils who were eager to show what they had achieved. The staff shared how the new facility has become an integral part of school life. Pupils use the fire pit to explore topics such as fire safety, cooking, teamwork and communication – skills that extend well beyond the classroom. For many of the students, simply having the chance to cook outdoors, take responsibility and work together has been transformative.
Sue, and deputy head Sally Collins, explained that these sessions have boosted confidence, improved social interaction and encouraged pupils to join in group activities. Daniel also stopped by at The Harrison Centre for Social Mobility, housed within the school’s much-loved train carriage in the playground. The centre offers sensory-based learning and creative workshops in a space that sparks imagination. It has become a hub of curiosity and calm, providing pupils with unique opportunities to learn and explore at their own pace. Seeing both the Harrison Centre and the new outdoor area in use was a reminder of how community investments can have lasting impact.
Speaking after the visit, Daniel said: “It’s inspiring to see how the Harrison Foundation’s support has helped create spaces where children can grow in confidence and curiosity. The dedication of The Dales staff is extraordinary and the smiles on the pupils’ faces say everything about what this work means.”
The Harrison Foundation remains committed to supporting organisations like The Dales School, where innovative teaching and inclusive design open doors for every child to thrive. The Foundation believes that education should be inspiring, empowering and rooted in real-world experience and The Dales embodies that belief every single day.