The day we received news that a grant for outdoor play equipment was on its way was very exciting. The children wanted swings, poles, ladders, ropes and even a rocket ship. Such imagination – so it was important what was built captured that great sense of adventure our little ones have. 

What is so wonderful about our new play equipment is that the children get to climb high and look down at their friends from completely new heights. It gives them a whole new perspective!

The equipment itself is built with sustainability in mind, crafted mainly from local wood and other locally sourced materials. The main poles came from nearby trees that were no longer useful. Sourcing everything locally means we can buy materials cheaper and get the build done much faster.

I built the equipment alongside my husband, Michael, who also runs our school. In Malawi everyone chips in to get things done. We made sure to involve the children in the build, too. They chose the bright paint colours and even helped paint a few of the poles—though I think the ground turned a heavy shade of red and yellow that day! Involving them is so important; because they helped build it, they take real pride in it and ensure it is well looked after.

Before this, we didn’t have many toys for the children to play with, which unfortunately led to a lot of disagreements. Having this outdoor space has completely eased that tension. Running, jumping, climbing—it is a delight to just stand back and watch them play.

The old car at the centre of the play area is a massive hit; they love pretending to drive their friends to the market or down to the lake. In fact, the equipment is so popular that we sometimes have to limit the number of children on it at one time!

We wanted to create something bright and fresh that offered a lot of different activities. When we received the generous grant from the UK charity Mwana, we went straight to the children to ask what they wanted. 

We know that children learn an incredible amount just by playing. This type of equipment builds balance, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills—all essential for our pre-schoolers’ development. Playing outside promotes curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and focus—and, of course, lots and lots of fun.

Without the incredible generosity of you, Mwana donors, this play equipment simply would not have been built. Thank you for bringing this joy and learning to our children.