Six schools in the Willoughby area will be opening their playgrounds and other facilities to the public during these summer holidays, as part of the NSW Government’s Share Our Space program.
Member for Willoughby Tim James welcomed the announcement, and said he was thrilled that some of the excellent facilities and open spaces at local schools would be used during the holidays.
“We have fantastic schools in Willoughby and it makes perfect sense to let the community make use of them during the holidays,” Mr James said.
“Schools are at the heart of our communities. Share Our Space is a great opportunity for families to come and visit their local school, and for children and residents to stay active and enjoy the fantastic playgrounds and spaces these schools have to offer.”
With forecasts for hot summer weather ahead, the Share Our Space program has targeted schools where there is a need to provide greater access for families and residents with outdoor green space and naturally shaded play areas.
Northbridge Public School will be open 8am to 5pm every day from Wednesday 21 December 2022 until Sunday 22 January 2023.
Additionally five schools will open 8am to 5pm on weekends and public holidays including: Willoughby Public School, Castle Cove Public School, Mowbray Public School, Artarmon Public School and ANZAC Park Public School.
Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell said the program addressed the recurring challenge of providing children with free, local activities during the holidays.
“I think it’s a common sense approach to open up playgrounds, gardens and ovals to encourage local children and residents to keep active at no cost to parents,” Ms Mitchell said.
“It’s a way of ensuring that communities get as much use out of their local public schools as possible.”
The Department of Education has carefully assessed schools to ensure those participating are safe and secure, and will continue to monitor sites over the holiday period.
For a current list of participating schools, visit the Share Our Space webpage.