Pupils at a Derry primary school have helped design their own play park which was opened this week.
Children at Long Tower Primary School who drew up plans for their own playground have finally been rewarded with ‘bright and exciting’ new facilities.
Primary four pupils showed resourcefulness beyond their years by designing their own play area, which incorporates wheelchair friendly equipment.
The new park is situated at the lower school, with great views over the Long Tower and St Eugene’s Parish.
School principal, Joyce Logue, said: “We have a large playground, with football nets for the children in this area and for several years the children have been asking about the possibility of more equipment.
“This year, a group of Primary 4 children felt that more could be done to make the playground brighter and more exciting.”
“At their class council meeting, the children proposed that we make more use of our playground and incorporate swings and slides etc.
“They drew up plans for this. They were also keen that the park would be wheelchair friendly for children presently in the school and for future pupils who may need wheelchair facilities.
“They took their proposals to a whole school council meeting, attended by one of the school governors.”
All children agreed t a play park would be a welcome addition to the Long Tower school environment.
The proposal was then discussed by governors and it was agreed that a play park would be constructed.
“As a result, to the delight of the children, we have a fantastic play area,” Mrs Logue said.
“It was great to see the children so excited as they watched the play park being built and then as they attended the opening, carried out by the Mayor Elisha McCallion.
“We now have a first class facility that enables our children to enjoy and avail of physical activity. I am delighted that they have been able to see their plans come to fruition.
“We are very grateful to Stephen Mc Guinness and staff from Hawthorn Heights for their great work.”
Photo shows Mayor Cllr Elisha McCallion with pupils having a go on the swing in the new play park at Longtower PS, with the help of Joyce Logue, principal, Mary McGlinchey teacher, and Sandra Fox. (Photo - Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)
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