A North Yorkshire primary school aims to boost the well-being of pupils by innovative use of play as a learning tool.
The outdoors will become the classroom for pupils at Stokesley Primary Academy with the addition of specially designed playground markings to engage pupils of all ages.
The fun activities have been made possible through a grant from Broadacres Housing Association’s community development fund, with pupils given the chance to decide how the money should be spent.
For early years pupils a version of the classic 'What Time Is It Mr Wolf' game with painted footprints and other markings proved a popular choice and will help with phonics, maths as well as physical activity.
Meanwhile, the older children went for an exercise wheel to keep them active during break time and help with the warm-up for PE and sports lessons.
Megan Wrightson, Secretary of Friends of Stokesley Primary Academy, said the old playground markings had become worn to the point of being unusable.
“We are very keen to encourage children to enjoy being outdoors and boosting their physical and social well-being,” said Megan.
“Play can be a very effective learning tool and this is something we are keen to develop.”
The Friends group was set up last year and has already run a series of fundraising activities ranging from coffee mornings, Christmas jumper sales and book fairs.
Most read:
- Durham siblings unexpectedly inherit 18th century farmhouse from relative
- Authentic gelateria to serve up Italian ice cream in Durham after cafe shuts
- Hopes for a new Ray Lonsdale steel sculpture in County Durham town
“Our aim is to enrich the lives of children at the school and thanks to the support of Broadacres this playground improvement will help us to do that.”
The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. All grants are approved a panel consisting of Broadacres’ residents.
To apply to the Fund visit https://www.broadacres.org.uk/customer-area/getting-involved/community-development-fund/
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here