BIG-hearted Year 10 students have showcased the power of collaboration and creativity by revamping an old space into a much-needed new playground with cubby houses for primary school pupils.
The Australian Industry Trade College (AITC) Ipswich Year 10 students refurbished the new play area for the Ipswich East Primary School Outside School Hours Care (OHSC).
The AITC Gift of Giving Project gives students hands-on experience with tools and by working collaboratively on projects.
Ipswich East Primary School OHSC Coordinator Melanie Hanson said the quality of work had left her in awe.
“The Gift of Giving Project has not only provided our children with an amazing playground but has also shown them the value of community, kindness, and the spirit of giving,” she said.
“This project serves as a reminder that when young individuals come together with a shared purpose, they can create something truly extraordinary.”
The project came about from a partnership between AITC and the not-for-profit OHSC service.
Ms Hanson had previously employed young people from AITC Ipswich in school-based apprenticeships and hoped AITC could help once again by bringing a play area to life.
“Unfortunately, we were unable to get extra funding, so I reached out to AITC to use our play area as a blank canvas – the AITC young people had an incredible opportunity to build something unique.”
AITC Principal Carla McCarthy said the vision for the playground grew into creating a space to nurture children’s creativity and physical activity.
“The students have set a shining example, demonstrating that through acts of kindness, we can collectively give back to our community,” Ms McCarthy said.
