“We are absolutely delighted": Preston school receives £25k boost from council

Grimsargh St. Michael’s C of E Primary School has been awarded a £25,000 grant from Grimsargh Parish Council to begin delivering ambitious plans to overhaul its playground equipment - a project set to benefit hundreds of local children for many years to come.

The funding follows more than a year of work by the school’s Parent, Teacher and Friends Association (PTFA), who explored potential suppliers and developed a detailed business case which was presented to the Parish Council in October.

The school is seeking £100,000 in total to replace its 15-year-old trim trail and cargo net - both now out of use - to create a more imaginative, inclusive and nature-rich outdoor environment for its pupils.

During the presentation to councillors, Headteacher Mr Stuart Booth and members of the PTFA outlined the need for investment but the highlight of the evening was a heartfelt speech by Year 5 pupil Ruby Clarke (pictured front row, second from right in the below picture), who explained what the new play facilities would mean to her and her classmates, earning significant praise from councillors.

The following day, Sue Whittam, Clerk to Grimsargh Parish Council, confirmed that the school had been awarded £25,000 towards the first phase of their playground improvement programme.

Headteacher, Mr Stuart Booth (pictured back row, left) said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this support from Grimsargh Parish Council. The £25,000 grant will enable us to begin replacing equipment that has sadly become unsafe and unusable, and marks the start of a truly transformational project for our children.

“High-quality outdoor play is vital for wellbeing, imagination, social skills and physical development. This investment will benefit the whole school community, and we are incredibly grateful.”

Work is already underway: during October half-term, a portion of the old equipment was removed, and the school is currently selecting its preferred playground contractor, with installation of the new trim trail expected during summer 2025.

With around 70% of pupils at Grimsargh St. Michael’s living in the village itself, the investment will have a direct impact on the local community.

Chair of Grimsargh Parish Council, Peter Burton, pictured between Mr Booth and Year 5 teacher, Mrs Todd, said: “The Parish Council was very impressed with the depth of research and detail in the school’s proposal, and it was clear how much benefit the project will bring to local children.

“We were also hugely impressed by Ruby, who spoke confidently and passionately on behalf of her school - she did a fantastic job. We are pleased to support the first phase of this project, and are excited to see what comes next.”

The PTFA is now working to secure the remaining £75,000 needed to deliver the next phase of their playground redevelopment ambitions. However, with no available funding within school budgets for major outdoor redevelopment, community support will be essential.

PTFA Chair, Deb Jacques, said: “We’ve made an amazing start, but we still have a long way to go. Every donation - big or small - will directly improve the learning, wellbeing and happiness of children at Grimsargh St. Michael’s.

“We would love to partner with local businesses who want to make a meaningful impact in their community and would be willing to help us with the next phase of this project.”

Businesses or individuals who would like to pledge their support or find out more can contact the PTFA at: [email protected].