‘Concrete has finally given way’ - South Shields school celebrates its new-found green space
A South Shields school is celebrating transforming its concrete exterior into a new green space for students.
A South Tyneside school’s “concrete jungle” exterior has been transformed into a green space haven for pupils – thanks to the simple touch of new metal security fencing.
Though bosses at Mortimer Primary School admit the barrier is not pretty, they say it is highly effective and a game changer in many areas of learning.
Not only has it blocked out the public and made safe an area adjoining the South Shields site, it will also be fully exploited for activities during the school day.
Alongside a new multi-use games pitch installed on a longstanding hard surface play area, it has helped to create an additional 50 percent green space.
Head teacher Peter Bennett said his 600 pupils were previously barred over safety fears from venturing out onto a public open road and grassland on their doorstep.
A few had tested the area just as the finishing touches to the fencing were being made a few days before the end of term in July.
‘Concrete has finally given way’
But they will find it private and closed off when they return to school this week on Wednesday, September 2, allowing them to go where they have not been able before.
Peter, 46, said: “When I started in January 2023, the total lack of natural green space was heart breaking in comparison to other schools around the area.
“We know the profound difference natural environments make to a child’s mental health, emotional resilience, and ability to focus.
“Fighting through three-and-a-half years of planning hurdles to bring grass, nature, and sports facilities to our pupils — and our holiday HAF club attendees — is game-changing.
“Concrete has finally given way to a space where our children can breathe, play, and thrive.”
Peter conceded securing the fencing upgrade had been a lengthy process which had not been without temporary setbacks.
He described its installation as “turning a former concrete landscape into a natural oasis designed to boost pupil mental health, physical well-being, and community holiday programmes”.
‘Not just a fence to us’
The multi-sports pitch cost £36,000, money which came from school funds, giving youngsters a new avenue to play away from hard surfaces, while the fencing was paid for by South Tyneside Council.
Peter added: “I know it is just a fence but it’s not just a fence to us, it is so much more. We were a concrete jungle, the area outside was a dead space.
“As well as vehicles turning, there was anti-social behaviour and even people sleeping rough in the bushes.
“This has created an additional safe education space. In fact, it’s given us 50 percent more space.
“Previously we couldn’t do anything outside. The children were able to access it during the last three days of term before the holidays and they loved it.”
The multi-sports area is also expected to benefit the wider community, including children who attend Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) clubs at the school.
‘We have worked with the school to address a longstanding issue’
Councillor Michelle Fascione, Lead Member for Children and Families, Education and Skills, commented: "We're delighted that these major improvements are now in place at Mortimer Primary School, ready for the start of the new academic year.
“We have worked with the school to address a longstanding issue regarding the lack of outdoor space for pupils.
"The project involved relocating a public footpath and installing new fencing to create additional secure outdoor space, helping the school make better use of its grounds and giving children more room to learn and play safely.
"This investment forms part of the Council's ongoing programme of improvements to educational buildings and facilities across South Tyneside, ensuring our schools continue to provide the best possible environment for children and young people."