A haven for reading at Hanbury First School
Hanbury CofE First School in Bromsgrove, used its Public Health community grant to turn an overlooked part of the playground into a dedicated quiet reading area and nurture space.
The school wanted a place where children could step away from the noise of busy playtimes and enjoy calm, comfort and connection.
The new area includes soft seating, thoughtful design features and a selection of age‑appropriate books chosen to encourage reading for pleasure.
Pupils have embraced it immediately and are using the space to relax, share stories with friends or simply take a breather during the school day.
Children who prefer quieter environments now have a place where they feel secure and included. The space is helping pupils regulate their emotions, reducing playground overwhelm and contributing to more positive behaviour. It has also strengthened the school’s reading culture by giving children a relaxed, enjoyable way to engage with books beyond the classroom.
Headteacher Aaron McDonagh said: “We are incredibly grateful for the wellbeing grant, which has enabled us to create this valuable addition to our playground. The quiet reading area is now a much-loved space that can support both learning and wellbeing.”
To apply for a wellbeing grant for your school or educational setting. Please visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/communitygrants