The Junior School Playground

Our Junior School Playground has finally reached completion. This project has been in the making since our Junior School commenced in 2008. During 2024, our Giving Day made this dream a reality.

Why a Junior School playground? Play is important for boys for several reasons:

1. Physical Development

Play allows them to engage in physical activities that help them develop coordination, strength, and endurance. It contributes to the healthy development of muscles, bones, and motor skills.

2. Social Development

Through play, boys learn important social skills such as cooperation, negotiation, and conflict resolution. They develop empathy, learn to take turns, and understand social cues, which are crucial for building friendships and navigating social situations.

3. Cognitive Development

Play stimulates creativity, imagination, and problem-solving skills. Boys engage in imaginative play, roleplaying, and games that help them explore different scenarios, experiment with ideas, and develop critical thinking skills.

4. Emotional Development

Play provides boys with opportunities to express and regulate their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. It allows them to explore and understand their feelings, build selfconfidence, and learn how to manage stress and anxiety.

5. Bonding and Communication

Play allows boys to bond with their peers. It provides a common ground for communication and collaboration, helping them build meaningful relationships and develop a sense of belonging and connection.

6. Stress Relief

Play is a natural stress reliever for boys. It offers them a break from academic pressures and other stressors, allowing them to relax, recharge, and rejuvenate their minds and bodies.

Overall, it is essential for the holistic development and healthy growth of our young men.

An important part of our playground was the painting of murals that formed part of our fort. We were blessed to have Ms Ashley Hudson who is a Barkindji woman from North Queensland contribute to this project. Significantly, Ashley painted her designs within the garden during construction. The design of her murals reflects our EREA Touchstones and incorporates the handprints of both staff and students.

As the Director of Junior School, I am immensely proud to see this project come to a completion. On behalf of the students both present and in the future, our sincere gratitude to all that contributed to our Giving Day 2024 and the Nudgee College Foundation. I share with you a number of Year 5 students’ comments regarding their excitement about using the playground next year.

“I can’t wait to have this amazing space to explore the many areas of our new playground with my mates. Basketball and handball are fine, but this is going to be a great space. I’m sure it is going to create lasting memories of my time in the Junior School” - Oliver.

“Our new playground is an opportunity for all the boys to have such a fun space. It is so much higher than I anticipated and I can’t wait to use the ninja wall. Bring on 2025!” - Sammy.

From the Foundation

The new Junior School playground is a true testament to the spirit of philanthropy at Nudgee College. This project has come to fruition through the united efforts of our community, all dedicated to enhancing the lives of our youngest boys.

On Giving Day this year, we witnessed an inspiring gathering of Junior School parents, alongside parents from the Senior School, Old Boys, and family members - all contributing generously to bring this vision to life.

It is this spirit of collective generosity that shines brightly at Nudgee. Every contribution, from the smallest to the largest, plays a crucial role in helping us achieve our shared goals.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Nudgee College Foundation and everyone who has generously supported the Building Fund, both in the past and on Giving Day. Your support means the world to us, and we could not have accomplished this without you.

Ms Lindsay KhushalHead of Philanthropy