DEVIZES MP Claire Perry and Wiltshire High Sherriff Lady Sarah Gooch were among a group of dignitaries who went back to school as they helped launch an outdoor learning centre.

More than 80 people were guests of the Rowdeford Charity Trust at a party but they had to do more than just mingle as they took part in lessons on numeracy, literacy and communications at Rowdeford School near Devizes.

Rosie Berry Rowdeford Charity Trustee said: "We did not expect we would have some fun doing a typical outdoor learning lesson. Despite a lot of chatter and laughter everyone had three short lessons in numeracy, literacy and communication. It was observed that many tried to cheat, break the rules or even rewrite the rules but in the end many got the hang of it."

The Outdoor Learning Centre scheme will create a complex to help and expand existing outdoors learning education at the school which caters for children with complex learning difficulties.

The school has an outstanding rating from Ofsted and now wants to become a centre of excellence by involving the wider community, visiting schools and offer training.

The party was an opportunity for supporters to get an update on the project and fundraising. They were also able to see the site where the centre will be created.

Jonny Grew Chairman of the Rowdeford Charity Trust, head teacher Ingrid Sidmouth Head and John Craze the tutor responsible for outdoor learning spoke of the project and the many successes to date, followed by Mr Grew ushering everyone outside for the surprise lesson session.

Guests went into the woodland where the centre is to be built and saw the new school yurt which has been put up as part of the project and everyone was also to see the completed access road and cleared surroundings.

Mr Grew said: "We were extremely keen to show everyone what we have all achieved so far thanks to so many supporters, organisations and agencies. We already have pledges and have received grants enabling a start but want a further £300,000 to finish."

The first phase of the scheme will see the former school farm known as the Kennels restored but kept close to its 19th century origins and to encourage birds to nest. A tawny owl is already using it as a roost.