Our projects

MUGA Development Completed August 2024

In early 2024, Coleridge Primary School identified that pupils were often hesitant during sports activities due to concerns about balls leaving the play area. This issue was linked to the existing low fencing around the MUGA, which allowed balls to easily exit the space and land in the surrounding dense vegetation, making retrieval difficult and time-consuming. This discouraged students from playing to their full potential. Recognizing the need to support safe, unrestricted play for children’s physical development, Coleridge Primary School reached out to Coleridge Families to request funding for an extension to the MUGA fencing and other essential repairs.

1. Ball-Stopping Net Installation:

   • In July 2024, Coleridge Families instructed Coleridge Primary School maintenance contractor to begin works surrounding the Ball - Stopping Net Installation.

   • Specifications:

     • Installed 48 meters (across two sides) of durable, 2.0m-high polypropylene netting atop the existing 3.0m fence.

     • Raised total fencing height to 5.0m to contain balls effectively within the MUGA area.

     • Included all necessary post extensions, corner reinforcements, and strut ends to secure the installation.

   • Cost: £6,818.94 + VAT

   • Outcome: This improvement means pupils can now engage in sports activities without the constant worry of losing equipment, allowing for more active, dynamic play and a greater focus on skill development.

2. Surface Repairs and Maintenance:

   • During an inspection in July 2024, several issues were identified:

     • Six carpet gripper channels were found to be dislodged and protruding due to pressure from neighbouring tree roots.

     • Approximately 3 meters of the centre white line on the MUGA surface had lifted and needed replacement.

   • Repair Actions:

     • Removed, adjusted, and reseated all dislodged grippers.

     • Supplied and installed 3 meters of new white line marking to ensure visibility and usability for sports activities.

   • Cost: £2,520.00 + VAT

   • Outcome: The MUGA surface was made level, safe, and visually clear, ensuring the play area remains both safe and accessible for all users.

Project Scope :

Funding and Community Impact

Through a joint collaboration, Coleridge Families and Coleridge Primary School successfully completed both the ball-stopping net installation and essential MUGA repairs. This teamwork ensures that, by the start of the new academic year, Coleridge pupils can benefit from a safer, more engaging environment that fully supports their physical development and encourages active, confident play.

Conclusion

The successful completion of these improvements reflects the shared commitment of Coleridge Primary School and Coleridge Families to create a safe, vibrant, and developmentally enriching space for their students. By addressing the physical and safety needs of the MUGA together, this project enables pupils to fully engage in sports, develop their athletic abilities, and build physical confidence—providing a strong foundation for a healthy, rewarding school experience.

Coleridge Playgrounds - In progress

Due for completion April 2025

Why Playground Equipment Matters

Playgrounds are an essential part of school life, especially for children aged 4 to 11. High-quality playground equipment supports physical development, helping children improve their coordination, strength, and motor skills. Beyond physical benefits, playgrounds foster creativity, social interaction, and resilience. For schools like Coleridge Primary, well-designed play areas are vital for promoting holistic development.

The Journey of the Coleridge Playground Development Project

Coleridge Primary School partnered with Coleridge Families to revamp the East and West Playgrounds. The East Playground required modern, age-appropriate equipment for younger children (ages 4-6), focusing on safe, imaginative play. The West Playground, used by older students (Years 5 and 6), needed interactive equipment that encouraged both physical activity and social collaboration, addressing the current shortfall in these areas.

A Fun Run to Fund the Vision

To bring this vision to life, Coleridge Families organized the Coleridge Fun Run, an extraordinary community event where parents, teachers, and students joined forces to tackle 5K, 3-mile, or 1-mile runs. The event was a huge success, raising over £11,000 through direct donations and an additional £7,000 from admission tickets. Combined with Coleridge Families’ contributions, the project’s total budget reached £40,000

Partnering with Industry Experts

To ensure the best results, we invited three industry-leading companies—Kompan, Eibe, and Home-Front—to visit the school and propose equipment tailored to our playgrounds. Each company specializes in inclusive designs that cater to children of all abilities, focusing on the development of specific physical and social skills.

Involving the Students

At the suggestion of Head Teacher Mr Leon Choueke, Coleridge Families held a productive meeting with the Coleridge Student Council. This provided an invaluable opportunity for the children to share their ideas and preferences, ensuring the new playgrounds reflect their needs and excitement.

Selecting the Best Partner

After evaluating all proposals, Kompan was chosen for their innovative, inclusive designs that perfectly matched the criteria for both playgrounds. We are now collaborating with them to finalize plans, aiming for completion by April 2025.

Stay Tuned for Updates

The transformation of our playgrounds is well underway! We’ll keep you informed on the progress and look forward to welcoming all parents and carers for the grand unveiling of the new play areas.

Thank you for your continued support—together, we’re building a brighter, more playful future for our children!