A NEW outdoor seating area has been unveiled at Lytchett Minster School, thanks to supporters managing to raise almost £50,000

The new area, which includes a pavilion, is only stage one of the project.

Pupils will be able to gather in the outside space at break times, and it is hoped the pavilion could be used to stage performances and host classes.

Louise Christopher, chairman of Lytchett Minster School's PTA (Parent Teacher Association), said: "Lytchett Minster School is pleased to unveil the first stage of our new outdoor seating area .

"After a lot of fundraising and hard-work by the PTA we have managed to donate nearly £50,000 in less than two years .

"This is an incredible achievement and will be greatly appreciated by the students."

The whole area of the sunken garden had to be completely redesigned then rebuilt from the ground up.

Headmaster Andrew Mead said: "On behalf of all the staff, governors and students of Lytchett Minster School , I would like to thank Louise Christopher and her PTA team for their exceptional fundraising over the last two years .

"We are delighted with the pavilion. It provides a wonderful place for the students to sit, relax and chat at break and lunchtimes.

"In the summer months , we will use the pavilion as an outside classroom and also as a performance area for evening functions.

"We are very grateful for this fantastic addition to our beautiful school."

The PTA works to provide the school with funds and resources not normally provided by local government.

All parents of children at the school are automatically members of the PTA.

The comprehensive school, at Post Green Road, Lytchett Minster, has around 1,400 pupils