West Lothian primary school opens outdoor classroom in memory of former pupil after tragic brain tumour death

Broxburn Primary School officially opened its new outdoor learning space yesterday, naming it The McKenzie Classroom in honour of former pupil Jaxon McKenzie.

Jaxon, who attended Broxburn Primary, was diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), a rare and aggressive childhood brain tumour. He sadly passed away in December 2024 aged just six.

Since his death, Jaxon’s parents and close friends have established Jaxon’s Gift, a charity dedicated to supporting children and families facing a cancer diagnosis.

The official opening ceremony of the new outdoor classroom at Broxburn Primary, with headteacher Mrs Davies, Jaxon's sister Ayda, and his best friend Geoff doing the honours. Inset: Jaxon McKenzie. | Submitted

The special opening ceremony on Friday, June 5, was led by headteacher Lisa Davies, alongside Jaxon’s sister and one of his close friends, making the occasion a particularly meaningful tribute to his memory.

Lisa said: “The classroom will provide a lasting legacy for Jaxon, creating opportunities for outdoor learning and enjoyment for future generations of pupils.

“The McKenzie Classroom now stands as a permanent reminder of Jaxon’s connection to the school and the positive impact his family and friends continue to make through Jaxon’s Gift, supporting others facing some of life’s most difficult challenges.

“The successful event highlighted the strength of the Broxburn community, with pupils, staff and local organisations coming together to honour Jaxon’s memory while helping families affected by childhood cancer.”

Activities included a dress-down day, a colour bomb station and a popular slip-and-slide attraction. Top right: Mrs Davies in the black hoodie, Jaxon's parents Ashley and David McKenzie, his sister Ayda and best friend Geoff. | Submitted

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The event brought together pupils, staff, families and members of the wider community to celebrate the new outdoor classroom and raise funds for a worthy cause.

Activities included a dress-down day, a colour bomb station and a popular slip-and-slide attraction, which was supported by Broxburn Fire Station. Thanks to the generosity of everyone involved, an impressive £497.97 was raised during the day.