Come rain, hail, or shine children are always eager to get outside and play. Now, thanks to funding for a new artificial turf, that is exactly what you’ll find the children of Winton School doing.
With support from Community Trust South’s Playground Funding, and passionate fundraising from the school’s PTA, a new recreation area made from artificial turf was laid at Winton School in late 2024.
Winton School principal Steve Wadsworth said the benefits of the new outdoor space were significant.
“Previously, during the colder and wetter months, we had to cordon off numerous grass areas from the children and limit their play options. The new turf increases play and educational opportunities and gives the children back the power of outdoor play,”
The benefits of movement and fresh air for learning have long been proven and with the new turf providing an all-weather option, the school is enjoying offering more ‘brain breaks’ for children to get outside, re-direct their energy and return to the classroom for better learning.
Community Trust South Grants Manager, Dianne Williams, said the Trust’s school and early childhood centre playground funding played an important role in supporting the wellbeing of rangatahi.
“For children, play spaces can cultivate joy, connection and contribute to overall wellbeing. I’ve no doubt that the new artificial turf at Winton School will soak up a lot of fun, laughter and learning,”
Along with a strong emphasis on play, the new turf also provides the school with an outdoor space for community gatherings and gives outside educators more scope to run targeted programs.
Principal Steve Wadsworth said the completed project aligned with the school’s Whakatauki - ‘Kia Tipu, Kia Hua, Kia Puawai - To grow, to thrive, to prosper’.
“Thanks to generous support from Community Trust South we have been able to implement a long-term, low maintenance solution for a large outdoor area, and give our school children of today, and those in the future, a sustainable platform for play,”
Community Trust South funding can be used to upgrade existing playgrounds and develop new playground for schools and early childhood centres. Find more more information on this fund here.
