PUPILS at a Greenock school are reaching new heights thanks to a new £8,000 obstacle course.

Youngsters at St Joseph's Primary are having fun and keeping fit at break times thanks to the new climbing frame.

It is the latest addition to the Wren Road revamped playground, to make outdoor learning more accessible.

Acting head teacher Mark Deegan said: "We have been working on the playground experience and, after Covid, developing it further to increase opportunities.

"We bought an outdoor classroom and we are getting a new canopy for that and reading sheds.

"Head teacher Alan Graham bought the sandpit two years ago so the climbing frame is part of a bigger plan we've been working on for the past few years."

The obstacle course was funded through the pupil equity fund and was provided by Caledonia Play.

Mr Deegan said: "The aim is to help raise attainment.

"This provides a happy, safe experience to make them more prepared for learning."

Captains and vice captains from primaries six and seven gave the Tele a demonstration of the new outdoor attraction.

Zara Scott, 11, said: "It's really good fun.

"When the logs spin it makes it a lot harder to go along."

Riley Dorrian, 10, added: "I like going on the obstacle course - it really challenges your ability to get through it."

Mr Deegan says that breaks are restricted at the moment due to restrictions, with class 'bubbles' in place and the playground broken down into separate zones.

He added: "We operate a three-ay rotation, so pupils can do something new every day."

The obstacle course is also benefitting the wider community.

Mr Deegan said: "People use the playground, including the new climbing frame, at night and weekends, so it's good for the local community as well.

"They have always looked after the playground, which is great to see."