Thanks to a generous £5,000 donation from Qualis’ Community Benefit Fund, the 174 pupils at Ongar Primary School now have a purpose-built gazebo for outdoor play and learning.
The gazebo provides an all-weather shelter, supporting the school’s Outdoor Play and Learning Programme. It also serves as an outdoor classroom, allowing children to explore and connect with nature as part of their education.
“It’s another great thing about Ongar Primary School. We get to use it all the time. At playtime it’s a quiet, shady place to play and I LOVE doing my lessons outside too,” said one of the Year 4 pupils.
Ongar Primary School has earned a prestigious Platinum Level Certification from the Outdoor Play and Learning Programme, recognising its outstanding efforts to integrate play into school policies and practices. The certification reflects the school’s commitment to fostering an environment where children can engage in meaningful play while implementing strategies that drive lasting improvements in playtime experiences.
The idea for the gazebo was born out of the school’s commitment to the Outdoor Play and Learning Programme, with members of the Ongar Primary Committee leading the charge to fundraise for its construction.
Ms Angela Lucken, Grant Fund Application Officer on the Ongar Primary Committee, applied for funding from Qualis’ Community Benefit Fund.
“We were over the moon when we learned our application for £5,000 was approved,” she said.
“Although we had already made progress with fundraising, this grant covered a significant portion of the costs, allowing us to complete the gazebo in a relatively short time.”
Headteacher Mrs. Debbie Attridge added:
“The gazebo is already making a tremendous difference for our pupils, many of whom may not have access to a garden or safe outdoor space at home.
“It’s not just a building—it’s a classroom, a playroom, and a place for relaxation – and we are incredibly grateful to Qualis for this donation.”
Councillor Nigel Bedford, who serves on the panel for the Community Benefit Fund in his role as portfolio holder for housing, visited the school recently with Qualis representatives to see the completed gazebo.
“The panel was unanimous in its support for this project. This is exactly the type of initiative the Community Benefit Fund aims to support, and it’s fantastic to see the children actively using it,” he said.
About the Community Benefit Fund
The Community Benefit Fund is a partnership initiative with Epping Forest District Council. It provides financial support to organisations, community groups and charities across the district that are making a positive impact in the community.
Launched in 2024, the fund has already supported more than 20 projects. Applications can be submitted at any time, with funding rounds held four times a year.
Click here to find out more and apply.
