Pupils at Archbishop
Wake CE Primary School in Dorset are getting fit by taking part in the Daily
Mile initiative, thanks to the opening of a new running track made of
artificial grass.
Installed over the
summer holidays by professional UK grounds maintenance contractor, Countrywide
Grounds Maintenance, the school wanted an all-weather artificial surface that
could be used throughout the year, offered good shock absorption and would stand
the test of time with excessive use.
The track was
created in just two weeks with a team of four Countrywide contractors spending
over 400 man hours.
A quarter of a mile
of artificial grass was laid over 120 tonnes of aggregate for the sub-base and
then covered with 20 tonnes of sand to level it. A turquoise coloured
grass was chosen to enable the pupils to easily see the track.
Pupils at the school
are now able to use the new running track to complete their Daily Mile, a
national initiative to help pupils get fit by jogging each day.
The track, which can
be used by pupils, parents and staff, is also used in PE lessons and sporting
events held at the school.
Karen Renwick, Head
of PE at Archbishop Wake CE Primary School, said: “It is a wonderful addition
to our grounds which will help everyone to stay fit and healthy. We believe
healthy bodies support healthy minds, which supports learning.
"The Daily Mile
is already enjoyed by many of our pupils at Archbishop Wake and we are looking
forward to developing it’s use throughout the year.
"We chose
Countrywide to complete the work for us due to its competitive quote and
ongoing grounds work at the school, which are consistently carried out to a
high standard."
George Beaty,
Regional Manager of Countrywide Dorset, was delighted to win the contract with
Archbishop Wake, adding: “It was hugely exciting to win this project and to
develop such a key resource for the school to help improve the pupils’ health
and fitness.
"We chose
artificial grass from Perfectly Green for the track surface as it provides a
clean and dry environment for the children all year round, as well as a
non-abrasive, soft and cushioned surface, which is highly durable, resistant
and requires minimal maintenance. We hope the track will be appreciated
for many years to come.”
