Wolverhampton pupils 'devastated' after thieves target primary school playground
Playground furniture paid for with money raised by pupils at a primary school has been stolen by heartless thieves.
Pupils at Rakegate Primary School in Oxley, Wolverhampton were said to be 'devastated' when they came into school on Monday morning to find that all of the wicker seating and tables in their outdoor reading shelters had gone.
Headteacher Sarah Horton says what makes it all the more upsetting is that the pupils and PTA had raised more than £2,000 for the furniture through non-uniform days, a summer fair, a sponsored run and bake sales.
Mrs Horton said: "It's really sad that somebody would steal from children. They raised the money themselves for the furniture in the reading shelter and they loved using it. It has now been taken from them.
"The children specifically asked for a quiet place in the playground where they could go and read stories with their friends. This area is so important to the children and especially those with sensory needs that require a quiet place to go and feel calm.
"As a school, we try to promote a love of reading. The reading shelter was a space where they could sit with friends and read quietly together."
Mrs Horton appealed to any local businesses and those that may be able to help.
A post on the school's Facebook page read: "Over the weekend, we have had the outdoor furniture from the reading shelters stolen. These were purchased out of fundraising money and now means children have nowhere to sit to read at break times. This is really sad news, if anyone has any information we would be grateful. CCTV is being checked."
One parent, Sara-Jayne Jones, whose son has ADHD and a sensory processing disorder, says not having access to the outdoor furniture will impact him greatly.
"The furniture used by the children daily means that their outdoor spaces can be utilised in all weathers and provides comfy seating for anyone that needs it," said Sara-Jayne. "It is a bit of home from home for them.
"Outdoor spaces are critical to my son's wellbeing. He takes regular brain breaks from his learning and loves being outdoors - he is not made to be confined all day. The shelters and seating mean that he can go outside in all weather and regulate himself, like many other children with learning needs."
She is also working to source donations and replacement furniture from the school.
Anyone willing to help can contact the school on 01902 558608.
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