The students of the Petersville Basic School in Whitehouse, Westmoreland, rang in the new year welcoming a brand new playground made possible by the Sandals Foundation.

Well over 40 students in class 1-3 will benefit from the designated play area for growth through recreation. 

Speaking to the importance of play in childhood development, Patrice Gilpin, public relations manager at the Sandals Foundation, says, “Play and playgrounds are actually vital components of helping children develop key skills. From physical endurance, building targeted muscles, problem solving, cooperation and social skills, play helps in the holistic development of our young ones.”

“At the Sandals Foundation, we’re committed to facilitating the resources schools need to inspire creativity and improve learning, especially at the early childhood level,” she continued. 

The Sandals Foundation has donated over J$500,000 to facilitate the construction of the playground which includes two swings, a seesaw, a jungle gym, and a slide. 

In addition, principal Simone Quest-O’Sullivan, shares “will be a great aid in the development of the students. Play is integral in the way children see the world, their imagination and decision making. They are already ecstatic and I can foresee many days filled with laughter for them in this area.”

For little Trevena Brown, a class 3 student at the institution, her favourite part of the play space is the jungle gym.

“I love playing on the jungle gym because I get to test my strength, to swing and also its fun to find my way out after,” an elated Brown shared.