William Bellamy Primary School has been awarded £10,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund. 

The Dagenham school  will use the money to redevelop its playground, which will include permanent court markings, skills areas and a large dart board.

Parents will also be able to watch their kids take part in sporting events from the newly installed seats around the new playground.  

In making the decision, directors of the Community Fund were impressed by the school’s provision of low cost football training on Sundays for kids who don’t play for a team.

It is hoped that the new features in the playground will get the more kids exercising and get inspired about sport.

Donna Rose, PE Coordinator, Extra-Curriculum and Cultural Enrichment Lead at William Bellamy Primary School, said: “We’re delighted the National Lottery Community has recognised our work in this way.

“Now, thanks to the National Lottery, players will be able to support the families of the children who attend our football sessions to be more active, learn new skills and meet others from across the borough, enjoying being outside in a safe and stimulating environment.”

The National Lottery Community Fund is the largest of its kind in the UK and is used to help fund community projects.

Cllr Evelyn Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement, said: “It’s fantastic to see this investment going towards the redevelopment of this playground, meaning it’s going to be easier for students to exercise, play and socialise.

“It’s great to see community projects like this take off – this will really benefit the students of William Bellamy for years to come.”

Nine out of 10 Barking and Dagenham schools are rated good to outstanding by Ofsted.