Green light for outdoor amphitheatre at Hassocks school

Artist's impression of the amphitheatre at Downlands School

Plans for an amphitheatre to be built in the grounds of a Hassocks school have been unanimously approved.

Youngsters at Downlands School will soon be able to show off their acting, music and dance skills in the open air after being given the nod by West Sussex County Council.

Headteacher Mark Wignall said work was expected to start in the spring and the amphitheatre should be open in the summer.

As well as being used for creative lessons, it will also double as a social space for the children.

Mark Wignall headteacher at Downlands School, Hassocks

Mr Wignall told the council’s planning committee: “My vision for Downlands is to create an environment that stimulates young people, an environment that they are excited to attend every day.

“Involvement in creative and performing arts is a hugely important part of children’s cognitive, social and moral development and also vital in engaging young people in school.

“Young people love being involved in music, art, dance, drama and these activities give them another reason to come to school each day.”

While the cost of the project has yet to be finalised, it will be partially covered by a £10,000 grant from the parish council.

Other money will come from the Garfield Weston Foundation, income from the school’s sports centre, and funding from the PTA, who Mr Wignall described as ‘wonderful’.