The idea
An unloved corner of the playground, currently housing the old trim trail, transformed into an exciting fitness area - outdoor gym and table tennis tables - improving the space for the school and opening the area to the children's community groups (ages 5-11 years)
The new equipment and surfacing, fenced off for safety, will encourage happy, healthy play allowing children to get the best possible start in life.
It will give children's Community groups an area to improve physical health and mental wellbeing with access for all.
What we'll deliver
- Clear the area of the existing delapidated trim trail, uneven surface and broken planters.
- Install new surfacing throughout, providing a safe surface for the activities
- Install an outdoor multi gym, to which additional equipment can be added in the future
- Erect two table tennis tables
- Install fencing to separate the area from the general playground area
Why it's a great idea
A dedicated fitness area which will benefit children aged 5-11 - with curriculum PE activities and lunchtime groups of school children to encourage safe and healthy play, and after school groups to tackle inactivity and promote inclusivity.
There are no outdoor gyms specifically for primary aged children in the area, so to open this space up to childrens community groups who may not have access to dedicated sports equipment will facilitate children to have the best possible start in life, be safe from harm, promote physical activity and mental wellbeing.
Steps to get it done
- Clearing the existing space
- Lay new surfacing
- Install outdoor multi gym and table tennis tables
- Fence off the area for safety
- Open for school and community groups
At St Michael’s we also feel that having this type of equipment would not only offer capital to our school but also our community by providing a diverse outdoor recreation facility thus contributing to overall community health and development of friendships.
With this in mind, we view the possibilities that the inclusion of an outdoor gym at St Michael’s offer as endless. A space that creates safe, happy children that maximise their learning potential due to a healthy outlook on life both physically and mentally alongside a well supported extended community that view our site as a safe space that values them and encourages them to be the best version of themselves.
