By Pam Kiriakidis
AN INCLUSIVE playground, designed for students of all abilities, is now open at Whittlesea Primary School.
The new playground, supported by the State Government’s Inclusive School’s Fund, features a swing and climbing equipment on a soft foam base that allows all students – regardless of their disabilities and differences – to enjoy outside the classroom.
Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins officially opened the new space last Monday, with the help of students, Member for Yan Yean Lauren Kathage and the school’s principal Ty Hoggins, who provided a tour to the parliamentarians prior to the opening.
Ms Hutchins said the new playground created a safe environment for all children.
“It’s built so that no matter what ability a child has, they can enjoy themselves and play with their colleagues and it’s not a segregated area, it’s a blended area so everyone can play in a safe environment,” she said.
Ms Hutchins said parents who had children with disabilities were advantaged.
“It gives parents choice who have kids with disabilities – that they don’t always have to go to a specialist school – they can go to the local primary school and know they’re going to have accessibility and they’re going to be treated fairly,” she said.
Whittlesea Primary School applied for the grant under the Victorian School Building Authority and consulted with all students for feedback on their new playground.
“That strong student voice through the brochure, letting them vote on the types of equipment for them to actually say what they enjoy doing at break means they’re enjoying their recreation and learning in the yard,” Mr Hoggins said.
He said the new space aligned with the school’s values and conveyed an important message to the community.
“We have three core expectations – respect your school, do your best and help others succeed – that help others succeed in particular is not just worrying about themselves, but worrying how they be a positive influence on others – that is inclusion,” he said.
“I think we send messages to our community by what we establish and the behaviours that we have in place all the time, and this playground prioritising the inclusive approach, sends a message to our whole community.”
Ms Kathage said the playground was setting up students for life.
“The world is made up of all different people and the reality of life that for a successful, happy life, you need to get along and enjoy the company and everybody, being in this playground means that children learn how to play with all types of people, all ages,” she said.
