A RIBBON was cut in May to officially open the new play equipment at Coxley Primary School.
It marked the successful conclusion to a fundraising campaign that raised £15,000 to pay for the equipment in just four months.
The old equipment had been removed on safety grounds a couple of years ago, and The Friends of Coxley School PTA decided that they would make replacing it their main aim this year.
As well as public donations through a JustGiving page, a number of businesses gave donations, and Protec offered to match-fund the money donated.
Lauren Clarke, Chairwomen of the Friends, said: “As chairwoman of the Coxley school PTA I am so very proud at what we have achieved for a small school, to absolutely everyone who made this possible I am so very thankful. Seeing the children of Coxley school play on the new equipment filled me with such pride and to know it will be used for generations to come. Just amazing.”
Other fundraising activities included a Medium night and an Eighties disco at The Loft in Street. A coin challenge in February raised £908.83, which was doubled by Protec to make a total of £1,817.66.
Rob and Debbie Bevan of Protec joined Lauren in cutting the ribbon on May 12 to open the new equipment. The children now have a Trim Trail & Imagination Play Area that includes a wobbly plank, a rope traverse, a rope walk, a balance beam, a locomotion train set, picnic benches, a tree seat and more.
The equipment was installed earlier than first expected, which means that the current Year 6s can make use of it before the end of the school year.
Headteacher Hayley Hamblin said: “At Coxley Primary School, we place immense value on our outdoor space and the time we spend outside during playtimes. These moments are far more than just a break from the classroom – they are an essential part of our day, supporting our physical health, emotional well-being, and social development.
“Staff and children have worked together to develop a space where the children can explore, move freely, and engage in imaginative play. Whether it’s running across the field, building dens, climbing on the play equipment, playing skipping and ball games or simply sitting and chatting with friends, our pupils benefit from the freedom and fresh air. It’s in these open areas that friendships are formed, confidence is built, and important life skills like co-operation, sharing, and problem-solving naturally take root.
“We also recognise that outdoor play supports learning in subtle but powerful ways. After a burst of active play, children often return to the classroom more focused, refreshed, and ready to learn. It’s a balance that helps them thrive both academically and personally.
“Ultimately, our outdoor space is an extension of our learning environment – one where joy, creativity, and community come together. We cherish it not just as a playground, but as a vital part of our school experience and we are very grateful to our Friends of School and the wider community who enabled us to further develop this wonderful space.”