Inclusive Playground Gives Children in Oxfordshire a Chance to Play
OxfordshireKingfisher School, Abingdon, in Oxfordshire has received a £15,000 grant from Wooden Spoon Charity to help install a wheelchair swing and wheelchair-accessible roundabout, creating an inclusive outdoor play space where every child can experience the joy of playing alongside their friends. The project is designed to support children with limited mobility, giving them a chance to play, build confidence and enjoy the freedom that every child deserves.
About the Project
For many children with complex physical disabilities, something as simple as joining friends on the playground can be a challenge. Too often, they are left watching from the sidelines while others play.
Thanks to Wooden Spoon’s funding, that is beginning to change.
The new wheelchair swing and accessible roundabout have transformed the outdoor play area into a place where children of all abilities can laugh, explore and play together. Designed with accessibility at its heart, the equipment enables pupils with complex physical needs to enjoy the excitement and stimulation of playground activities in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment.
More than just play equipment, these new facilities create opportunities for children to develop confidence, strengthen friendships and feel fully included in school life. They encourage physical activity, support emotional wellbeing and allow pupils to share the simple but precious moments of childhood with their classmates.
The project was officially celebrated at a special opening event attended by pupils, staff, families and supporters, before the school rounded off the day with a vibrant end-of-term Colour Run. The laughter, smiles and excitement throughout the playground perfectly captured the difference the new equipment will make for years to come.
Representing Wooden Spoon at the event was Oxfordshire Chair Steve Murphy, who witnessed first-hand the impact the project was already having on the children.
Steve said:
“Watching the children enjoying the new wheelchair swing and roundabout was incredibly heartwarming. Seeing children of all abilities playing together, smiling and sharing those moments of pure joy reminds us exactly why Wooden Spoon exists. Every fundraising event, every volunteer and every donation helps make projects like this possible. It was a wonderful celebration and a privilege to see the difference this equipment is already making to so many young lives.”
Funded by a generous Wooden Spoon Charity grant, the project reflects the charity’s commitment to creating inclusive environments where children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage have the opportunity to thrive. By removing barriers to play, the new facilities ensure every child can experience the fun, friendship and sense of belonging that comes from simply being able to join in.
About Wooden Spoon
Wooden Spoon is the children’s charity of rugby, dedicated to transforming the lives of children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland. Through the power of the rugby community, the charity funds life-changing projects including sensory rooms, accessible playgrounds, specialist equipment and educational facilities, creating opportunities for children to play, learn and thrive.
With a proud history of supporting impactful, community-led projects, Wooden Spoon continues to make a lasting difference to thousands of children and young people every year.
Get Involved
Support specialist equipment and facilities projects like this across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon. Together, we can continue giving children the chance to play, the confidence to belong and the opportunity to reach their full potential. Find out more at www.woodenspoon.org.uk/themes
