Background
The school identified a need to improve its early years outdoor area, which had not been updated since 2007. With limited working bikes and growing student interest, the school saw an opportunity to foster active travel habits from a young age and support gross motor skill development.
Project description
The grant funded the purchase of trikes, road safety signs and paint supplies to create a vibrant bike track. Staff and community volunteers helped design and paint the track, which is now used for lessons on bike safety and healthy lifestyles. The space supports inclusive, play-based learning and is integrated into health and physical education.
Outcomes
• Active travel uptake: More students are walking and riding to school, applying skills learned on the track. Parents report increased interest in bike riding at home
• Community engagement: Volunteers from the community helped design and paint the track
• Educational value: Students have engaged in lessons about road safety and learning how to ride a bike safely in the community. Teachers have engaged in lessons relating to health and how to maintain a safe and active lifestyle in the community
“This has been a wonderful opportunity for our student's growth and development. We are very grateful to have received the opportunity to provide a functional and fun space for our Kindy and Pre-Primary students to learn in an inclusive environment. They were given ways to explore and learn using a play-based learning style. This space has provided an invaluable learning opportunity for our younger students that will carry them throughout their school life and beyond.” — Amy Utley, Your Move Champion
Learn more about the Connecting Schools Grant here.