Grant gives boost to Stokesley students’ playground creativity

Stokesley Primary Academy has introduced a “Loose Parts” play scheme, thanks to a £200 grant from Broadacres Community Development Fund.

The equipment encourages children to use their imagination while developing communication and problem-solving skills through open-ended play.

Megan Wrightson, secretary of the Friends of Stokesley Primary Academy (FoSPA), said: “It’s been great to see how the children have taken to this play equipment.

“So far we’ve seen all sorts of creations including giant caterpillars, shops and towers.”

The “Loose Parts” equipment—wheels, crates, pipes and more—was funded by the grant, with additional materials such as tyres and wood offcuts donated by local businesses.

Ms Wrightson said the scheme allows for more imaginative and co-operative play than traditional playground structures.

She said: “Loose parts is an activity that children of all abilities can participate in and enjoy and combining this by giving a second use to items that might otherwise just go to landfill also helps with sustainability.”

FoSPA hopes the project will further support teamwork, self-expression and cognitive growth in a fun and inclusive environment.

The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports organisations, groups and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes, with all grants approved by the Association’s own residents.

For more information about the funding scheme, visit the Broadacres website.