A new inclusive playground has been built at Sunshine Harvester Primary School which will give children of all abilities new ways to socialise, develop and learn through play.
Laverton MP Sarah Connolly cut the ribbon on the project alongside school leaders at an unveiling ceremony last month.
Principal Polly Hansen said the playground, which is also referred to as a sensory garden, is already popular among students.
“It’s just a wonderful inclusive space for all the children to enjoy. They use it at lunch, at breaktimes. Teachers use it for small groups… as a calming engaging learning space,” Ms Hansen said.
Some features of the new space include outdoor musical instruments, a waterplay area, log stools, a painted drinking fountain and contemplative garden areas with rocks and plants.
“It gives [students] an opportunity for something different. It’s a quiet and stimulating space,” Ms Hansen said.
The project was funded as part of the state government’s inclusive schools fund.
The state government said the fund was set up to provide schools with new facilities such as outdoor sensory gardens and learning areas, specialist play and recreation equipment and adapting indoor learning spaces to be more inclusive.
The fund has supported over 420 projects over nine rounds, according to the state government.
Laverton MP Ms Connolly said it was fantastic to see the kids making use of the space.
“I congratulate the entire school community for bringing their vision of inclusivity to life,” Ms Connolly said.
