New Struan Playground Appeal
As you may already know, the inside of the New Struan School has been specially designed for children with autism with design features that enable the pupils to understand and anticipate the environment around them. The outdoor playground however, lacks the same autism focused design.
Last year staff and pupils considered how the playground could be developed to enhance pupils’ outdoor learning experience. Pupils gathered photographs and images of items and equipment they would like to see in a new playground and this was combined and developed into a more detailed plan.
Pupil's gathered ideas for the new playground
Work on the new playground has already started thanks to generous donations which have seen the arrival of a fort, a swing basket and some outdoor musical instruments. One important aspect of the plan is to introduce zoned areas as knowing that a particular type of play is undertaken in a specified area can enhance a pupil’s play experience and reduce anxiety.
As well as enjoying the new play equipment, pupils are putting their stamp on it by getting involved in some aspects of the development. Pupils Ben and Jason, helped to build the Willow Arbour which is a great addition to the playground, surrounding the storytelling corner.
Although we have raised almost a third of the funds required for the new playground there is still some way to go with plans to develop an outdoor fitness area!
You can help pupils, staff and parents get the playground they have been dreaming of by donating at: http://www.justgiving.com/Scottish-Autism-Playground-Appeal
