New playground boost for St. Andrew’s pupils thanks to TRU grant

St. Andrew’s C of E Junior School in Hadfield has unveiled a transformed outdoor space following the successful securing of a grant from the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) scheme.

The funding allowed the school to install a variety of new outdoor exercise equipment, which officially opened on Tuesday 2nd September. The upgrade aims to provide pupils with enhanced opportunities for physical activity and play within their school environment. 

Bruce Levitan, Chair of Governors, led the application for the grant and expressed his appreciation for the support. “We are extremely grateful to TRU” he said. “This grant means that children will now be able to enjoy outdoor exercise activities for years to come.” 

Headteacher Amanda Cornwall highlighted the anticipated benefits for student wellbeing. “This equipment will have a huge positive impact on the children’s welfare and mental health” she noted. “It’s well known that enjoyable exercise improves mental health, and we’re thrilled to see the difference it’s already making.” 

The opening ceremony was attended by several local dignitaries, including Sarah Anderson, Diocesan Director of Education, and Liz Seymour, Deputy Diocesan Director of Education, both representing the Derby Diocesan Board of Education. District councillor Ed Siddall and county councillor Jason Isherwood also joined the event. 

Ms Seymour praised the initiative, stating: “What an inspiring addition to St. Andrew’s. It will help pupils flourish, grow and shine and certainly was a pleasure to see how happy this made them. The school, supported by its dedicated governors, continues to be a beacon of nurture, care and love. We are grateful for all that the staff do. Thank you for allowing us to share in the opening.” 

Jamie McKinnon, Social Value Manager for the TRU Programme Sustainability Team, welcomed the project as a key example of the fund’s objectives. “The TRU Community Fund was designed to create or enhance spaces and places for people along our route,” Mr McKinnon remarked. “And this great project is a brilliant example that will have a big, positive impact on children in the local community.” 

To mark the occasion, the school’s Head Boy and Head Girl welcomed the guests and gave a demonstration of the new facilities, signalling a fresh start for outdoor fitness at the junior school.