Nine Apeldoorn schools receive funding for green and challenging schoolyards

Following the eleven primary schools that received funding last year, seven more primary schools and two secondary schools are now joining them. The schools are: IKC Hei & Bos, Het Kroonpad & De Zonnehoek, Sprengenparkschool, De Fakkel, Jenaplanschool De Korf, De Terebint and De Schakel (Rederijkershoeve), De Praktijkschool, and Christelijk Lyceum.

Family-friendly city

The municipality is committed to making Apeldoorn an even more pleasant city for families. A city where children have as many opportunities as possible to play outside. Playing outdoors is good for children. They get more exercise and come into contact with nature. Because children spend a large part of their time at school, schools can play an important role in this. In addition, schoolyards are an important place for children in the neighborhood to play. One condition for receiving the funding is therefore that the schoolyards remain accessible to local children after school hours, at least until 8:00 p.m.

Greener and more sustainable

Schools can also help make Apeldoorn even greener and more sustainable. Schoolyards often cover large areas, and with a different design they can help combat ‘heat stress’ (a paved environment is warmer than a green environment) or improve the drainage of rainwater. One condition for receiving the funding was therefore that at least 50% of the schoolyard have a ‘natural character’ and be unpaved (green areas, sand, wood chips, etc.). Another requirement is that schools disconnect their downspouts from the sewer system if they have not already done so.

Surprising designs

This year’s applications are once again very diverse. Two secondary schools will receive funding this year, as will a school in the village of Hoenderloo and a special education school. The designs also vary widely. But they all have one thing in common: all the designs were created with input from the schools.

More schools will have an opportunity

Last year, eleven schools received funding for a new schoolyard. Almost all of these schoolyards have now been completed. Children are introduced to nature there and encouraged to exercise and play more. Several schools also use their schoolyard for nature education. The expectation is that schools will be able to apply for the funding again next year.

Alderman Nathan Stukker opened the new schoolyard at De Zonnewende, Keerkring location, in April 2019. Photo: Maarten Sprangh.