We are launching a campaign to support our school to transform its outdoor spaces into vibrant, inclusive environments where children can play, perform and connect – whatever the weather.
The school are seeking £20,000 to design and install two covered outdoor structures and an outdoor stage area, enabling year-round access to creative, physical, and social activities. And we are leading the fundraising efforts.
This project will directly benefit children, families, and the wider community by promoting wellbeing, creativity, and resilience through outdoor engagement in all seasons.
The Need
Outdoor play is essential for children’s physical health, emotional wellbeing and social development. However, in the UK, unpredictable and often wet weather significantly limits opportunities for consistent outdoor activity.
Our current playground spaces lack infrastructure that allows children to:
- Play freely during rainy or cold conditions
- Engage in outdoor learning year-round
- Perform music, drama, and group activities in a safe, sheltered environment
Without suitable facilities, valuable opportunities for development, expression and community-building are lost.
With suitable facilities we would:
- Increase outdoor activity: Enable daily outdoor use regardless of weather
- Support creativity: Provide a dedicated performance space for arts and expression
- Enhance wellbeing: Encourage physical movement and social interaction
- Strengthen community: Create a shared space for school, PTSC and local events
The Vision
Project Playtime aims to create a safe, durable and inviting covered outdoor area that includes:
- Two weatherproof shelter structures
- A raised stage/performance platform
- Flexible open space for play, learning and gatherings
This space will empower children to:
- Perform (music, drama, storytelling)
- Play actively in all weather
- Participate in outdoor lessons and group activities
The Cost
It’s hard to put exact figures on the costs, but we estimate the total cost to be around £20,000.
Individually, the covered structure with a canopy/shelter is estimated to be £18,000 while the stage/platform construction is £2,500. These prices include materials and labour
The PTSC are hoping to help the School raise this money through our usual events plus special fundraising including our new 200 Club, plus sponsored activities and we’re also exploring any opportunities for external funding.
Any ideas you have would be very welcome – please email contact@stjosephsptsc.org.uk
