The Zone is where Year 6 pupils buddy up with pupils from Year 3 to help them improve their reading. It is home to the school's three specialist Reading Recovery Teachers and is the centre for the 91¶¶Òõ and Hove Every Child a Reader programme which aims to raise attainment in literature.
Fine Art Painting student Hannah Kynoch said: "The children themselves helped out with suggestions for colours and characters to paint - it was very enjoyable."
Fellow Fine Arts student Rosie Hancock said:
"I was there over a couple of days and it was really fun – it's not the first time I have volunteered and I'm looking forward to my next project."
Parents also helped with the painting project and the Zone's launch included Year 6 pupils telling guests what they liked about it. One said: "I like reading to my buddy because it will help him become a better reader so he can get a better job when he is older."
Teacher Helen Sutcliffe said: "It's the best development for raising standards that I have seen in 15 years of teaching".
Charles Davies, headteacher, said: "We have been raising reading and writing standards in the school over the past few years. The dedicated Zone will make a big difference for pupils – the children love the bright, welcoming environment and can't wait for their time in the Zone."
The university students joined the school project through the university's Active Student service, which provides students with volunteering placements in the local community.
Beth Thomas-Hancock, student volunteering manager, said: "Active Student is very popular and everyone who volunteers finds the experience valuable and fun, and it can improve a student's CV and their employment prospects.
"We encourage students to join the programme – engaging with the community and helping where we can is a major part of the university's ethos."