Trainee teachers from the University of Chester have gone all 'Blue Peter' by creating learning resources for an innovative education centre.

The Recycle First Education Centre is the first facility of its type to open in West Cheshire.

The students worked on ideas for a number of interactive displays as part of their Global Dimensions specialism, which focuses on developing their skills and understanding about global issues and sustainability.

A number were turned into professionally produced, hands-on activities to develop knowledge and understanding of waste and recycling issues.

Tony Pickford, faculty of education and children’s services, University of Chester said: “The development of the recycling centre has provided a unique opportunity for the trainees to devise innovative activities on waste and recycling issues.

“It was great to see their ideas transformed into engaging and durable interactive pods that will be used by learners of all ages for many years to come.”

It is hoped that community groups, Key Stages 2 and 3 pupils, and higher education will use these specialist facilities.

The Recycle First Education Centre, based in the Kier depot in Winsford, has been designed for visitors of all ages who are interested in learning more about the work that Cheshire West and Chester Council and Kier are doing to reduce the waste produced in West Cheshire.

Executive member for localities, councillor Lynn Riley, said: “Our new Recycle First Education Centre has been designed to accommodate visitors of all ages and abilities who are interested in learning more about the work we are carrying out to reduce the waste produced in Cheshire.

“Thank you to the University of Chester students for contributing their ideas to the centre – hopefully their interactive designs will ensure visitors can understand and learn in an imaginative and memorable way.

“West Cheshire already has a great record for improving recycling rates and I hope that now the centre is open to visitors, residents can see for themselves the benefits, importance and results of recycling and that more people will get involved.”

The project was joint-funded by Kier and Cheshire West and Chester Council. To find out more about the Recycle First Education Centre and to book a visit www.recyclefirst.org.uk.