Information Bulletin
New Play Area for Sound Primary School
Pupils at Sound Primary School in Lerwick and nearby residents will soon be able to enjoy a challenging new play area built in the style of an ‘adventure trail’ that will be officially opened tomorrow (Friday). Maureen Watt MSP, Minister for Schools & Skills, will conduct the opening during an official visit to the school at 12 noon.
The adventure trail includes eight items of play equipment that will offer children a varied circuit of physical challenges to develop their balance and co-ordination skills. Items such as a low level climbing ledge, a wobble board, a climb across suspended tyres, and stepping stone stilts, will all test skill, agility and co-ordination.
During initial discussions the school expressed a desire to develop a distinctive ‘adventure’ type play area rather than the traditional ‘swings and roundabout’ option. The choice of equipment and play area design were finalised through consultation with the School’s Pupil Council, where pupils have had a large involvement in the final selection of play equipment. The play area is sited in the school grounds and will be available to pupils throughout the school day, including use during PE classes. The play area will also be open after school hours for use by local children.
Yvonne Laurenson, Head Teacher at Sound Primary School, commented – “We are all really pleased to see the new play park opened for school and public use. For several years, we have been working hard to enhance the school site to ensure that playtimes are an interesting and positive time for pupils. This adventure trail will complement the playground markings, our community garden and other smaller items of equipment, to add variety to our outdoor activities.”
The play area development has been led by the Council’s Sport and Leisure Service in partnership with staff and pupils from Sound Primary School. The overall project cost has been around £40,000 and been funded through the Council’s capital programme. Construction of the play area started in the spring and has been completed within the expected timescale by local contractor Frank Johnston Ltd. All items of play equipment are from specialist manufacturer Playdale.
The Council’s Sport & Leisure Service inspects and maintains over 70 play areas across Shetland. Following a recent and extensive review, the Service is currently redeveloping and refurbishing a number of sites to increase usage and improve the play value for children across the isles.
Ends …….