Fun is sailing at Kempsey Adventist College

Children at Kempsey Adventist School are now able to play outside under shade sails thanks to $16,483 from the Australian Government.

Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said four schools had been successful in receiving a Local Schools Community Fund Projects grant to deliver small projects that will greatly improve students’ experiences at school.

“Our Government recognises the important role schools play in our community and that’s why we’re funding small projects that will make a big difference at our local schools,” he said.

“The school communities in Cowper nominated the projects they most wanted and the Coalition Government stepped up with funding support through the Coalition Government’s $30.2 million Local Schools Community Fund.

“So some great, grass-roots projects are now being delivered like three large shade sails at Kempsey Adventist School and a sensory room at Kempsey East Public School.”

Kempsey Adventist School Principal Leanne Lesic said it was great to finally have shade sails erected over the Primary Play Area – a project that had been on the wish list for three years.

The shade sails were installed by local business Concept Shades. The school have seen a range of benefits from the new addition including providing a shade environment for students, cooling temperatures in the area, UV protection, reduced glare and weather protection.

Around 50 students from Kindergarten to Year 6 use this area at any given time.

“The shade has greatly enhanced the quality of the outdoor learning environment for our primary students,” Mrs Lesic said.

“The addition to the Primary Play Area has further encouraged our students to be active and make the most of the outdoors.”

Other schools to receive grants include:

• South West Rocks Public School: $9,000 for drought-proofing and rejuvenating the school oval
• Smithtown Public School: $15,000 for Connected Futures project
• And Kempsey East Public School: $8,000 for a sensory room.