Tuesday, 01 October 2019

Friday 27 September 2019

Schools in the Davidson electorate are among more than 100 Sydney schools to open their grounds to the public over the school holidays, part of the Share Our Space initiative.

Local member, Jonathan O’Dea, said that opening safe and purpose built play areas for children that would otherwise be left unused was a fantastic initiative.

"Some of my best memories of school holidays were playing in the park with friends. Our public schools have great facilities and opening these spaces to the community during the holidays is a brilliant use of space.

"Parents know that finding safe, free and fun places for their kids to play during school holidays can sometimes be challenging. 

"The Share Our Space program helps solve the age old task of keeping the kids entertained in the holidays.

The Share Our Space program has actively targeted schools in densely populated areas in Sydney for participation. The intention is to provide greater access for families and residents to outdoor green space and naturally shaded play areas.

“Share Our Space is a great opportunity for families, children and local residents to stay active and enjoy of some of the fantastic playgrounds and spaces that are available through our public schools," Mr O’Dea said.

Among the Davidson electorate schools included for the school holidays Share Our Space initiative are St Ives Park Public School and Kambora Public Schools.  

Minister for Education, Sarah Mitchell, said the initiative is part of the common sense approach the Liberals and Nationals Government brings.

"We have fantastic schools, with fantastic play areas and it makes sense to share these spaces with the surrounding community when possible," Ms Mitchell said.

The Department of Education is carefully assessing schools to ensure those who participate are safe and secure. 

To find participating schools, visit the Share Our Space webpage. A list of Sydney schools is available now, with a list of participating regional and rural schools available by the 30th of September.