Pictures: Dartmoor primary school unveils ‘exciting’ play space in restored historic building

Hennock Village Primary School marked the opening of a new table tennis facility on Monday (2 March) following the restoration of a historic building on the school grounds.

The new facility is located in the school’s renovated Netton building, a traditional cob and thatch structure which has been restored and fitted with a new table tennis table for pupils to use during break times.

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Hennock Parish Council funded the project, with Parish council clerk Elly Maynard officially opening the space with a ribbon cutting at 2:30pm.

A Hennock Primary School spokesperson described the new facility as “providing pupils with an exciting and active new play opportunity.” 

The opening, attended by councillors, parents, staff, pupils and members of the village community, marks the first step in a wider playground redevelopment project planned at the school.

Speaking at the event, PTFA chair John Harvey said some areas of the existing playground need improvement.

“The current playground surfaces are deteriorating and no longer fit for purpose,” he said.

The school has seen pupil numbers fall from around 70 to 40 in recent years. 

Organisers say the redevelopment project aims to help improve outdoor facilities and support the school’s long-term future.

The Parent, Teacher and Friends Association (PTFA) has raised more than £15,000 towards the plans through fundraising events, including an annual barn dance, as well as nearly £1,000 through a recent crowdfunding campaign.

The Link Academy Trust has also committed more than £8,000 to cover planning permission costs and to replace the preschool play surface.

Work on the new playground is expected to begin in June, with plans including a nature-focused outdoor space, designed with input from pupils.

John Harvey said the level of local support had been significant.

“The support from the community and local businesses so far has been extraordinary,” he said.

Several local companies have offered help with the project. Bridge Civil Engineering is supporting drainage and groundworks planning, while Timber Venture is contributing carpentry expertise. 

Local builder Jon Hole has also provided support with planning and coordination.

Suppliers including Aardvark South-West and Outdoor Play UK have offered machinery hire, labour and materials.

The school also thanked the wider village community, including the local pub, Hennock Hideaways campsite, the church and the village hall, for supporting the project.