Cradle Hill School is appealing to parents, local residents, businesses, sports clubs, alumni and the wider community to support a new crowdfunding campaign aimed at raising essential funds to repair and restore the school's much-loved all-weather astro pitch.

The astro facility plays a central role in school life, providing a safe, accessible and reliable outdoor space for hundreds of pupils throughout the year. Unlike grass playing fields, the all-weather surface allows sport, physical education lessons and outdoor activities to continue regardless of seasonal conditions, ensuring children can remain active, healthy and engaged in sport throughout the academic year.

Over time, the astro has experienced significant wear and tear and now requires substantial repairs to ensure it remains safe, functional and fit for future generations of pupils. The cost of these repairs is considerable, and the school is turning to the community for support to help secure the future of this invaluable facility.

The astro pitch is far more than a school sports surface. Outside school hours it is regularly used by local sports clubs, community groups and organisations, providing a valuable recreational asset for the wider area. Income generated through community and club hire contributes directly to the school's ability to maintain facilities, invest in equipment and enhance opportunities for pupils.

Without these essential repairs, the long-term viability of the astro and the important revenue it generates could be placed at risk.

Headteacher, Mrs Keith says:

"Our astro pitch is one of the most important facilities we have. It supports our pupils' physical education, wellbeing and sporting development every day, while also serving as a valuable community asset outside school hours. The income generated through external use helps us invest back into the school and create opportunities for our children. We are asking our community to come together and help us protect this facility for years to come."

Every donation, regardless of size, will make a meaningful difference. Contributions will go directly towards the repair and refurbishment of the astro, helping ensure that pupils, local sports clubs and community users can continue to benefit from a safe, high-quality all-weather playing surface.

Cradle Hill School is encouraging individuals, local businesses and organisations to support the campaign, share it with friends and colleagues, and help secure the future of a facility that benefits both the school and the wider community.

Together we care, Together we achieve is our school motto and by working together we can ensure that the Cradle Hill School astro remains a place where children can learn, play, compete and thrive all year round.