The 100 Property Club were at Freemantles School in Woking on 17th July with The Lords Taverners to formally open a new playground which was funded from monies raised at the December Dinner in 2014. Freemantles School is a very special local authority funded day school catering for 129 children and young people with autism aged between 4 and 19. The new playground is made up of two trampolines and two swings in enclosed areas to give a safe but freely available play space where students can relax, lower their levels of anxiety, develop turn taking and social skills whilst enjoying the equipment. The installation of the new playground has been made possible thanks to the generous support of our members.
The event was well supported by Club members as well as representatives of the Lord Taverners, the Chair of the Lady Taverners, Park Leisure who installed the equipment and various representatives and staff members of the school. Before giving us a tour of the school, the Head teacher, Justin Price, explained how valuable the equipment was to them not just from a social play perspective but also as an integral part of the development of the children.
David Bowen tests the strength of the equipment
Attendees from 100 Property Club, Lady Taverners, Park Leisure and Freemantles School
David Bowen and Carol Robinson of Lady Taverners
Club Chairman David Bowen, said: “This is the first time that the Club has provided funding for a new playground facility like this. It was clear from talking to some of the children that they love the opportunity of playing in this safe environment. The teaching staff were all so enthusiastic and they are already seeing the real learning benefits that it brings. I’m sure that the facilities will be extremely well used and provide a really positive impact on the lives of the pupils at Freemantles School for many years to come.”
As you will see from the photographs, David was so pleased with the new playground that he had a go on the swings himself!
Paul Robin, chief executive of the Lord’s Taverners, said: “The Lord’s Taverners believe that sport and recreation are essential for all young people, regardless of ability or background. This playground will help the Freemantle’s pupils take part in exercise that reduces anxiety levels whilst improving their functionality at school on a daily basis. We are proud to support the staff, parents and young people of Freemantles School and would like to thank the 100 Property Club for their support.”
Works are due to commence in the next few weeks over the school holiday period to install similar equipment at Greenvale School in Catford where we are supporting a similar project. Once the works are complete we will be arranging a similar opening event in September/October which again will be open to all Club members so that you can all see for yourselves the benevolent work we have been doing.
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