Our lovely school was rebuilt in 2018, and we are blessed with a huge outdoor space. Unfortunately, no funds were allocated for the outside space to provide any kind of entertainment or learning opportunities, and so the land is almost bare, but for a couple of portable football goals, and a tarmac court.

We aim to create a playground of three distinct areas that caters to children of all capabilities. Inclusive design ensures that every child, regardless of their physical abilities, can actively participate in the joy of play. The three areas are:

a) Foundation Stage Unit – playground markings, an outdoor shelter providing easy transition from indoor to outdoor learning, and a messy play zone.

b) Main playground – centred on active play, this area will contain various obstacles that will challenge learners whilst encouraging communication and collaboration, and developing their strength and gross motor skills. There will also be specific learning zones.

c) Sensory space – surrounded by planted rosemary and lavender bushes, this will provide a much-needed area for children who want to incorporate some quiet or reflective time into their breaks. This area will focus on the stimulation of the primary senses, namely touch, sight, smell, sound and taste.

All of this is with a view to enhancing physical activity and well-being, with a focus on ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all of our pupils. We aim to foster social interaction and team-building whilst integrating educational components and facilitating outdoor learning opportunities, which we believe will enhance school culture and spirit, Ultimately, this will make the school playground a happier and more fun place for ALL of our children, regardless of physical ability or special educational needs.

We have allocated each area with a fundraising target that will determine how wonderful the development might be!

• FSU: £5,000-£20,000

• Main: £15,000-£40,000

• Sensory: £5,000 - £20,000

The school has challenged its pupils with a sponsored walk up Meldon and/or as many laps as they can around the Rec Club field. This epic event will be held on Tuesday 26th March and hopefully raise awareness of the project within the community and raise significant funds.

As you will see, we have a mountain to climb, and therefore any contributions will be greatly valued and appreciated. Your support will not only benefit the current generation of children but will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

We are also hoping to encourage individuals or local organisations to donate sums of £2,500 or above. These donations will be recognised by way of a dedicated plaque acknowledging the lasting legacy that has been created. The more of these we can attract, the better the development can be. If you would like to have a specific item dedicated to a loved one, please get in touch.

We have an ambitious timescale - we would like to have hit our fundraising target of £25,000 - £80,000 by the end of the May half term, so that the playground can be installed in time for the start of the new academic year (or earlier if we hit our target sooner!). Imagine that: our fabulous youngsters scrambling in the warm sunshine filling the playground with shouts of excitement; our children with additional challenges being able to access exciting new areas and play with their friends, instead of watching from a distance. This could change our children's lives at primary school. Please help us give this to them.

THANK YOU.

Chagford CE Primary School