Date: 17 Sep 2026
Comber Primary School has transformed an area of woodland within its grounds into an outdoor learning environment thanks to support from Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund.The Big Bear Wood project has created a range of engaging activity zones including a story and reading area, swing sets, a sensory walking path and more to promote pupils’ wellbeing, outdoor learning and physical activity, while helping them to build confidence, develop social skills and learn beyond the classroom.
Alan Scott, Community Fund Ambassador at Belfast City Airport, said:
“At Belfast City Airport, we are committed to backing initiatives that create new opportunities for children and young people to learn, develop and thrive.
“This project is a strong example of how our Community Fund can transform spaces into valuable resources that enhance education, wellbeing, and inclusion.
“We are delighted to support Comber Primary School in bringing this vision to life and to see the positive and lasting impact Big Bear Wood will have on pupils, staff and the wider school community.”
Since its inception in 2009, Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund has invested over £780,000 in 262 local projects across Greater Belfast and North Down.
Throughout 2026 so far, Belfast City Airport has donated over £100,000 to the local community through its Community Fund. It is on track to achieve its commitment to invest £1 million by 2028.
Chris Logan, Principal at Comber Primary School, added:
“Big Bear Wood has become a much-loved part of our school community and has given pupils opportunities to learn in a completely different way.
“The new activity zones encourage creativity, teamwork, physical activity, and a deeper connection with the outdoors. From reading stories among the trees to exploring the sensory path and gathering around the fire pit, our pupils are benefiting from experiences that enrich both their learning and wellbeing.
“We are extremely grateful to Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund for helping us create a space that will benefit generations of pupils for years to come.”