Children with complex needs at Durham Trinity School and Sports College are enjoying new opportunities for play, independence, and sensory development thanks to a combined grant of £12,000 from Durham Freemasons Charity and the Norman Jackson Fund.
The funding has enabled the installation of a fully wheelchair-accessible roundabout and contributed to the development of an outdoor accessible climbing frame as part of the school’s outdoor learning project, designed specifically to support some of the most vulnerable pupils.
Rachel Grimwood, Head Teacher, said:
“This equipment allows our pupils to experience something many children take for granted: play. It is about feeling the wind on their faces, the movement, and the joy of sharing that experience with friends. For some of our children, this simply would not be possible without specialist equipment like this.”
The roundabout has been carefully designed to accommodate both wheelchair users and mobile pupils, creating an inclusive environment where all children can play together. With space for wheelchairs and seating, it provides vital sensory stimulation and promotes social interaction. The addition of the accessible climbing frame further enhances opportunities for physical activity, confidence building and inclusive play.
Durham Trinity School and Sports College, in Durham City, supports children aged 2 to 19 with a wide range of complex needs. In recent years, the school has adapted its curriculum to focus on communication, independence and real-life experiences, ensuring pupils are prepared for life beyond the classroom.
Rachel added:
“Our pupils benefit hugely from sensory and real-world experiences. This roundabout and climbing equipment support their ability to engage with the world around them, communicate their needs, and build independence in a meaningful way.”
The funding was made possible through a collaborative approach. While Durham Freemasons Charity initially provided a community support grant, the Norman Jackson Fund significantly increased the impact by contributing over £11,000.
Clinton Leeks OBE, Deputy Head of Durham Freemasons Royal Arch, explained:
“The Norman Jackson Fund was established to support young people and education across County Durham. By working together with Durham Freemasons Charity, we were able to provide a level of funding that truly met the school’s needs and made this project possible.”
Durham Freemasons Charity distributes more than £100,000 each year to local good causes, with all funds raised by Durham Freemasons. The Norman Jackson Fund was established through a legacy from Norman Jackson, a Durham Freemason and member of Universities Lodge, with a commitment to distribute £1 million over 10 years to support young people and education, a programme that is now around halfway complete.
The grant highlights the broader commitment of Durham Freemasons to transforming charitable giving into meaningful community service by supporting local organisations that make a tangible difference.
Trina Hodgson, Trinity School Business Manager, who helped connect the school with the charity, said:
“There can be misconceptions about Freemasonry, but seeing this support in action shows what it is really about: helping communities. The difference this has made to the children here is incredible.”
Trina Hodgson’s husband, a member of Finchale Lodge in Chester-Le-Street, helped establish the initial connection between the school and Durham Freemasons Charity, which enabled the application that led to this significant funding.
With school budgets under increasing pressure, support from community organisations remains vital. This investment ensures that children with additional needs can access enriching, inclusive experiences that support both their development and wellbeing.
