Saint-Francois-d'Assise has a modest-sized school yard that consists almost entirely of asphalt. The students of Saint-Francois-d'Assise were actively consulted in the development of a plan to renew this school yard to ensure it would live up to their expectations. The school administration worked with a school ground design consultant from Evergreen to develop a renewal plan that would respond to the needs of students while also meeting the many legislated requirements that Saint-Francois-d'Assise and other elementary schools are subject to.
Given the modest size of the school yard and the structure available in Hintonburg Park, it was determined that a play structure would not be a beneficial addition and that the project should instead focus on other apparatus that could be used by school children throughout the school year, not just outside the winter months.
The result is a renewed schoolyard plan that consists of three distinct phases with a total construction cost of $95,000. Their descriptions, estimated costs and prioritization are as follows :
- Phase 1 – Central play area
- Obstacles and structures ($40,000 over 2015-17) Completed
- Games ($25,000 over 2016-17) Completed
- Phase 2 – Garden ($5,000 over 2016-19)
- Phase 3 – Outdoor class ($25,000 over 2017-19)
Phase 1 – Central play area – Obstacles and structures
This existing area in the main school yard would be completely redeveloped. The existing aged asphalt would be replaced with an area that would encourage climbing and sliding, which were identified as key interests for students. This would include creating a hill made out of mulch for sliding and an enormous sandbox, as well as various obstacles for discovery made out of natural materials, such as wood.
Phase 1 – Central play area - Games
This existing area in the main school yard would be completely redeveloped. The existing aged asphalt would be replaced with new asphalt and a proper drainage system. Existing basketball nets would be improved and enduring lines would be painted on the asphalt to support organized games such as hopscotch and soccer.
Phase 2 – Garden
This would enhance the existing garden space to improve its functionality and aesthetic appeal, and ensure it is better protected from domestic pets and wildlife that have threatened its success. This garden plays vital role in contributing to the curriculum of students and enhancing their understanding of agriculture and the source of food.
Phase 3 - Outdoor class
This area would be situated in the front of the school property, on Melrose. It would develop an unused space into a shaded area with logs and large rocks for the students to sit on. This would provide an area for teachers to bring their classes (all ages) for outdoor sessions, extending the classroom experience, integrating the environment in the lessons.
Photos before....
Photos during renewal....