Transforming Play at Grimsargh St Michael’s CofE

Aim

Grimsargh St. Michael’s PTFA is raising funds to transform its playground into an inclusive space for learning, play and wellbeing.

Inclusive Play, Brighter Futures

Inclusive Play, Brighter Futures: Creating a safe, inclusive playground where all children can build confidence, friendships and wellbeing through play.

At Grimsargh St. Michael’s CofE Primary School, a semi-rural school in Preston, we support around 200 children aged 4–11, each full of energy, imagination and potential. But our current outdoor space is limited with outdated infrastructure which needs replacing. 

We believe our outdoor environment should do more than provide recreation.
 It should inspire imagination, support wellbeing, and enrich learning.

Our vision

We are raising funds to transform our grounds into a safe, inclusive and stimulating outdoor environment where every child can thrive.

This means creating a space that blends:

• Physical play
• Creativity and imagination
• Nature and exploration
• Learning beyond the classroom

Our redesigned playground will support:

• Confidence and self-esteem
• Friendships and social development
• Physical health and activity
• Emotional wellbeing
• Learning through play

This will be a space used every day, not just at breaktime, but as a meaningful extension of the classroom.

What your support will create

With your help, we will deliver three key areas:

🌿 Nature Area

A calming, sensory-rich environment where children can explore, regulate emotions, and build resilience. Particularly valuable for children with SEND or those who benefit from quieter, structured spaces.

*please note, these are design concepts at this stage. 

🏴‍☠️ EYFS Imaginative Play Area

An engaging pirate ship (or similar) and creative play zone for our youngest pupils, encouraging storytelling, confidence and early social interaction.

*please note, these are design concepts at this stage.

🧗 Trim Trail & Active Play Area

A dynamic physical space to develop coordination, strength, teamwork and confidence through active play and challenge.

Why this matters

For many children, especially those with additional needs, the right environment can be transformative.

As Helen Smith, Head of SEND, explains:

“An inclusive, sensory-rich playground will provide the space and stimuli our pupils need to regulate, connect and thrive, delivering measurable improvements in wellbeing, engagement and learning.”

These environments will help children:

• Feel calmer and more confident
• Build friendships and communication skills
• Improve physical development
• Engage more positively in school life

It’s not just about play, it’s about unlocking potential.

A lasting impact

This project aligns with the Government’s ambition to ensure every child can thrive in an inclusive, enriched educational environment.

As Headteacher Stuart Booth explains:

“Investment in our outdoor spaces will create calm, sensory-rich environments that support emotional regulation, resilience and wellbeing, while also strengthening children’s physical development and social skills.”

From early years development to outdoor learning and active play, this space will deliver long-term benefits for every child, including those who need additional support the most.

Why now?

Our current playground infrastructure is dilapidated and need replacing this summer. But we cannot deliver this project without external support.

School budgets are stretched, and without funding, this transformation may be delayed for years. This will mean current pupils will miss out on opportunities that could significantly improve their wellbeing and development.

We have the vision.
We have the plan.
Now we need your support to make it happen.

Our target

We are aiming to raise a total of £100,000

We have already raised £35,000 towards this target, and would like to raise a further £20,000 through this crowdfunding campaign. 

Every pound raised will go directly towards equipment, installation, and creating these vital outdoor spaces.

What your contribution could do

• £20 – helps fund sensory planting and materials
• £50 – contributes to inclusive play equipment
• £100 – supports the nature area development
• £500+ – helps fund major playground features

No matter the amount, every contribution makes a real difference.

Support from parents, businesses & the community

We are calling on:

Parents & Families

Help create a space your children will benefit from every day.

Local Businesses

Support your local community while demonstrating your commitment to children’s wellbeing and education.

Community Organisations & Partners

Join us in delivering a lasting, meaningful impact for local children.

Donate today and help us build brighter futures

This is more than a playground.

It’s a space where confidence grows, friendships are built, wellbeing is supported and futures are shaped. With your support, we can create an environment where every child, regardless of ability or background, can thrive.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 16th June 2026 at 9:39am