School’s playground funds reach halfway
Funds for a new playground at Dervaig Primary School are almost halfway there thanks to a ‘phenomenal’ response.
The ambitious appeal was launched just over a year ago to raise the £22,000 needed for a revamped fun zone and the community has embraced the challenge.
From stargazing nights to ceilidhs, pancake mornings to raffles – the Parent Council’s appeal has touched hearts and generous pockets.
Mull Rally events got into gear to help raise funds and a £2,500 award from Mull’s Waterfall Fund was also a big boost, said Parent Council chairperson Tracy Mayo.
She added: ‘The whole community has been phenomenal with their amazing support.
‘They’re really making this happen. The children, the parents, grandparents, families, businesses, past pupils, event organisers and so many others – they are all doing a great job. Thank you all.
‘The new playground will be an investment. It’s not just for today or tomorrow. The equipment we’re looking at will have a lifetime of about 25 years.’
Earlier this month Mull binman Colin Morrison named the playground project as one of the charities to benefit from his 2020 calendar sales, and back in March the school’s 25 youngsters brought in more than £2,000 from a sponsored walk – the older children walked all 13 miles from Tobermory to Calgary.
The playground’s dated castle and submarine were so battered by the elements they became unsafe and had to be removed, making way for the plan to create a new outdoor learning space that will include wooden shelters – one to read in and the other as an undercover play area which could double up as an outdoor classroom right next to the school building.
Some of the eco-style play equipment would stay out while some of it could be packed away out of school time. ‘It’s the Lego of the wooden world. They’ll be able to build and make things themselves out of it,’ said Tracy.
‘We’re hoping to make a start and put something in soon for the children to play on so they can see what’s coming. They’re being very patient and are good at improvising,’ she added.
There is some climbing equipment on the wishlist – but not too high.
To help, go to the funding page at dervaigprimaryschool.co.uk