A new eco-friendly trim trail installed at Eckington First School is fostering wellbeing, friendships and community spirit for the children.
Senior Mental Health Lead at Eckington First School, Louise Bishop, said: “Thanks to funding from a Public Health wellbeing grant, we installed an eco-friendly trim trail to promote daily physical activity, coordination, strength, and social connection. The trim trail has quickly become a favourite spot, with children having space to climb, balance, and jump with enthusiasm.
“It has been incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact our trim trail is having on pupils’ physical and mental wellbeing. We’re seeing growing confidence, teamwork, and pupils supporting each other through challenges—nurturing emotional resilience and positive relationships.
“The benefits are clear: pupils return to class focused, calm, and ready to learn, with improved mood and strong peer cooperation. The trim trail fosters wellbeing, friendship, and community spirit.
“Importantly, by choosing sustainable materials, we’re also teaching pupils the value of caring for each other and the environment.”
The children’s feedback says it all:
One child said: “The new trim trail is really fun and helps us stay active by climbing, jumping, and balancing. It makes playing outside more exciting and helps us feel happier and less stressed. We also like helping each other when something is tricky, which makes us feel like a team and good friends.”
Another added: “I love the trim trail! It’s fun to climb and jump on. It helps me run and play lots so I don’t get tired. I feel happy when I play there. My friends help me when it’s tricky, and we all have fun together. It’s the best place to play outside!”
To find out more about Public Health wellbeing grants for schools, please visit our webpage: Public Health Grant for Educational Settings
