Gosport primary school looking to build adventure playground

Haselworth Primary, in Stone Lane, Gosport has limited space outside.

To help, headteacher Emma Steele, along with colleagues and staff, is looking to create an outdoor area in the school yard which will have different areas for various age groups.

Plans contain a den building area, adventure trails for Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 trails respectively and a space for outdoor ball games.

Mrs Steele, who has been in her role for 18 months, believes that such a space would improve the learning of children in the classroom.

She also says it is a pressing need as there is a lack of similar amenities in the area.

The project is estimated to cost around £20,000 and there are fundraisers to reach the total.

So far, the organisers have made more than £3,000 and a recent Christmas fete brought in £600.

Mrs Steele said: ‘We’re unable to use the local park any more as the council knocked down the toilets.

‘It is important that we have somewhere for the children to slide down and hang off.

‘The area would promote a healthy way of living and a lot of houses in the area don’t have any gardens.

‘Playing outside helps children in the classroom as it stimulates their brain into the classroom.

‘We’ve had a lot of parent support and we’ve already taken out the pond – we’re tapping into the support of the local community.

Councillor Peter Edgar, executive member of education for Hampshire County Council, has welcomed the initiative and believes it will be a success.

Cllr Edgar said: ‘I think Haselworth has always suffered by being on a very cramped site.

‘The thinking nowadays has completely changed as schools are now looking how they can best utilise sites.

‘I think it will be extremely successful and I welcome the initiative.

‘We live in an age were we all know how important fitness is.

‘It is vital that children get the opportunity to exercise during the school day.’