This week we have been delighted to see our new playground markings in full use- bright, purposeful and already bringing so much more learning and fun to breaktimes and lessons. A huge thank you to Friends of Mary Howard for organising and funding the project, and to every family who has supported our events and fundraising this year. The money you have helped raise makes a tangible difference to school life.
What the markings are doing for our children
- They provide structured, active spaces for physical play and daily movement breaks, helping children practise coordination, turn-taking and stamina.
- Teachers are using the markings to bring maths and literacy outdoors- measuring games, number challenges, vocabulary trails and story-mapping happen naturally now children are outside.
- The markings have improved access to purposeful play for children of all ages; our younger children are confidently using them for role-play and early counting, while older pupils lead small-group games and use the area for coaching and friendship-building.
- They make the playground a more welcoming, colourful place that encourages creativity, conversation and collaboration- all of which support our values of Koinonia, Wisdom, Love and Perseverance.
At Mary Howard we believe every investment should support everyday teaching and children’s personal development. The playground markings are a great example of universal provision that benefits every child: they support physical development, reinforce curriculum learning and promote positive social behaviour — all without costly, ongoing intervention. That’s the most powerful kind of impact.
Thank you to FOMH for making this happen and to our school families for coming to events, buying raffle tickets, baking cakes and giving time — your support funds projects like this and creates opportunities our children would otherwise miss. Small contributions add up: like a mustard seed, they help something wonderful grow.
Playground
