Forest School £1k outdoor play boost

The Forest School, which has pupils from across North Yorkshire, is raising funds to enhance its outdoor space for pupils with additional needs.

The school caters for pupils aged three to 16 years with special educational needs, which include learning, physical and communication difficulties, autism and ADHD.

It was selected by Persimmon Homes Yorkshire as the latest beneficiary of its Community Champions scheme.

Jill Bryant, sports facilities fundraising project manager for the school, said: “Some of our outdoor space is on grass and sloped in places, which is not suitable in the wetter months for our pupils in wheelchairs or for those with walking aids.

“Our plan is to improve the space and include more wheelchair accessible pathways, surfaces and play equipment.

“The pandemic has isolated our pupils and we are desperately keen to improve our outdoor area so that all our pupils can socially enjoy the space while staying active.

“The basket swing will be a wonderful addition to our plans and Persimmon Homes’ support is helping to make this a reality.

“With fundraising ongoing, we hope to start the playground’s transformation in the summer.”

Persimmon Homes Yorkshire makes two donations of up to £1,000 every month to grassroots groups and charities across the region.

Scott Waters, managing director of Persimmon Homes Yorkshire, said: “Community Champions has allowed us to support dozens of good causes and we continue to encourage other such groups to apply – as next month they could be the fortunate beneficiaries.”

Visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity to apply for Community Champions funding.

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