More funding to improve learning, Uralla Preschool Director Anne Percy, left, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Preschool Board President Jocelyn St Clair in the outdoor play area of the preschool.
Monday, 1 March 2021.
URALLA Preschool is ‘revving’ to go on the final stage of its outdoor play area redevelopment, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall today announcing a $14,110 State Government grant to install a windbreak, adventure garden and permanent mini car track in the outdoor play area.
Last year, the preschool received a drought support grant which it spent on installing two rainwater tanks, a new irrigation system and refurbishing the tiered garden.
Mr Marshall said this new Quality Learning Environment Grant would get the project over the finish line, making the area an exciting place for children to play and learn.
“Already Uralla Preschool has done amazing work improving its outdoor play spaces to reflect the interests of children and meet the needs of the curriculum,” Mr Marshall said.
“This grant will add three final elements to the outdoor play area, starting with the installation of a windbreak at the back of the centre.
“Decked out with vines and murals, the wind break will protect the rear of the preschool from the bitter winter wind that blows across the adjoining Hampton Park and often restricts use of the area.
“An exciting new garden with false overhead canopy, wind driven pin wheels, mirrors and chimes will create a ‘fairy/dinosaur/farm scape’ for the children to explore, while a third garden space will have a permanent car track with tunnels and textures.
“I’m pleased this grant has allowed these improvements to speed home and deliver an environment where kids are excited to attend each day.”
Uralla Preschool Board President Jocelyn St Clair said the small community orientated non-profit preschool was excited to receive the funding.
“This grant goes a long way to completing the overall preschool’s outdoor space design which began in 2020 and aims to allow the children to play outside all year round in a hands-on setting,” Ms St Clair said.
“We are planning all stages will be completed in the next six weeks, with local contractors booked in to do the work over school holidays.
“Our preschool caters for over 30 children a day and I’m sure these garden spaces will provide hours of fun for every one of them, assisting to enrich their social interactions and language development as they explore and create
“It is so rewarding to see the children grow and develop as they become confident learners in our environment, and these new play spaces will provide new opportunities for children for many years to come.”