Sandiway Primary School boasts new outdoor quiet space

Anwyl's John Grime visits Sandiway Primary for the opening of the new quiet area. <i>(Image: active pr)</i>
Anwyl's John Grime visits Sandiway Primary for the opening of the new quiet area. (Image: active pr)
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A PRIMARY school's long-awaited outdoor project has been brought to life after years of fundraising.

The Parent Teacher Association at Sandiway Primary School had been fundraising for around four years to improve a previously 'overgrown and uninviting' outdoor area on the grounds.

Progress had been slow until housebuilder Anwyl Homes stepped in to help, bringing support from its network of suppliers and contractors.

Now the school has a new quiet outdoor space for pupils to relax and play, to the delight of the staff, parents, and the children.

Rebecca Roberts, chairman of the PTA, said: "This project is one that I've personally been working towards for nearly four years, so it's incredibly exciting to finally see it come together and, more importantly, to see the children enjoying the space.

"Having provided funds for some of the works through fundraising events, the PTA is hugely grateful to Anwyl and all of the contractors involved for the practical support in transforming the area."

The newly developed space features a reading corner, craft area and picnic tables, offering pupils a peaceful environment to eat, socialise and enjoy quieter activities such as board games.

Headteacher Debbie Bertram said: "The project originated from discussions within the School Council, where pupils expressed a desire for a dedicated quiet space that could be enjoyed by children who preferred calmer activities during social times.

"The support from Anwyl and its contractors has been transformational.

"The donation of time, expertise and materials has enabled significant progress to be made in a relatively short period, turning the area into a practical, attractive and welcoming space that can be enjoyed by all pupils."

Anwyl Homes took on project management and coordinated the support of contractors, including WPI Civil Engineering Ltd for site preparation, WGL Chester Ltd for the bark play area, Forshaws Fencing Ltd for the enclosure, and Smalley (North West) Ltd for decorating materials.

Kenny Waste Management handled waste disposal.

Parents and the school's site maintenance officer also pitched in with clearing, planting and painting.

John Grime, managing director of Anwyl Homes Lancashire, said: "When we heard about the school’s ambition to create a quiet area, we were happy to be able to help.

"The design had input from both pupils and teachers, with the children showing creativity and enthusiasm for the project."

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