Shipshape schoolyard (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

School wins lottery cash to upgrade play equipment

11:05am Friday 1st February 2013 in News By Lizzie Anderson

A PRIMARY school playground is looking shipshape thanks to a £10,000 cash boost from the National Lottery.

St William’s RCVA Primary School in Trimdon Village, near Sedgefield, is now the proud owner of a colourful pirate ship, which is proving a big hit with adventurous pupils.

As well as the grant from the National Lottery, the Friends of St William’s group raised £4,000 to help pay for the ship and other items of outdoor furniture for the school.

Kate Ellis, headteacher, said: "The children have benefitted greatly from the new outdoor equipment and they particularly love the pirate ship.

"We are grateful to all who donated to the cost – the Lottery, the Friends of St William’s, parents, grandparents, staff, children, and all who have helped or donated to our fundraising events."

The new equipment comes as St William’s celebrates an impressive performance in the latest Key Stage Two tests.

It is now at the top of the table in East Durham for pupils achieving a level four in maths and English combined.