Children with complex needs at a Durham school are enjoying new opportunities for play, independence, and sensory development thanks to a combined grant.
Durham Trinity School and Sports College in Durham City received £12,000 from the Durham Freemasons Charity and the Norman Jackson Fund.
The funding has supported the installation of a fully wheelchair-accessible roundabout and contributed to an outdoor climbing frame, all part of the school's outdoor learning project.
Rachel Grimwood, headteacher at Durham Trinity School and Sports College, said: "This equipment allows our pupils to experience something many children take for granted: play.
"It is about feeling the wind on their faces, the movement, and the joy of sharing that experience with friends.
"For some of our children, this simply would not be possible without specialist equipment like this."
The roundabout is designed to include both wheelchair users and mobile pupils, creating an inclusive space where all children can play together.
It offers essential sensory stimulation and encourages social interaction.
The climbing frame provides further opportunities for physical activity, confidence building, and inclusive play.
The school supports children aged 2 to 19 with a range of complex needs.
It has adapted its curriculum in recent years to focus on communication, independence, and real-life experiences to prepare pupils for life beyond the classroom.
Ms Grimwood said: "Our pupils benefit hugely from sensory and real-world experiences.
"This roundabout and climbing equipment support their ability to engage with the world around them, communicate their needs, and build independence in a meaningful way."
The grant was the result of a collaborative effort, with a community support grant from Durham Freemasons Charity and a significant contribution of more than £11,000 from the Norman Jackson Fund.
Clinton Leeks OBE, deputy head of Durham Freemasons Royal Arch, said: "The Norman Jackson Fund was established to support young people and education across County Durham.
"By working together with Durham Freemasons Charity, we were able to provide a level of funding that truly met the school’s needs and made this project possible."
Durham Freemasons Charity distributes more than £100,000 each year to good causes in the area.
All the funds are raised by members of the organisation.
The Norman Jackson Fund was established through the legacy of Norman Jackson, a Durham Freemason and member of Universities Lodge.
It has pledged to distribute £1 million over 10 years to support young people and education and is now about halfway through that programme.
The business manager at the school, Trina Hodgson, helped connect Durham Trinity with the charity.
Ms Hodgson said: "There can be misconceptions about Freemasonry, but seeing this support in action shows what it is really about: helping communities.
"The difference this has made to the children here is incredible."
The connection was made with help from Ms Hodgson’s husband, a member of Finchale Lodge in Chester-Le-Street.
He helped establish contact between the school and Durham Freemasons Charity, enabling the successful funding application.
With school budgets under increasing strain, the support of community organisations continues to be crucial.
The grant ensures children with additional needs have access to enriching, inclusive experiences that support their development and wellbeing.
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