Alex Cann

4:00pm - 7:00pm

Email the studio

Reef

Place Your Hands

Listen Live

Harrogate school opens new play area to celebrate 25th anniversary

Tuesday, 8 July 2025 08:54

Mr James Savile, Head of Highfield, alongside pupils on the new play equipment.

A primary school in Harrogate has opened a brand new play area as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations.

Through the generous donations of the school’s parents and friends association, Highfield Prep School has opened enhanced play facilities for children of all ages.

The undercover quiet area is a multi-purpose space which aims to “foster creativity through reading, socialising and engagement.”

Head of Highfield, Mr James Savile, said:

“These enhanced facilities are making a major difference to our entire community.

“The fundraising efforts of HLC Friends have been nothing short of remarkable, and they have delivered our community with something very special in our 25th year.”

The brand new facilities, which feature an outdoor playground and climbing wall, an undercover quiet zone and enhanced football/netball facilities are the direct result of fundraising efforts by ‘HLC Friends’, the parents and friends association of the Harrogate Ladies’ College family of schools.

The major fundraising event for the project was the 25th Anniversary Ball, which was recently held at the Majestic Hotel.

HLC Friends host a number of events throughout the year to raise funds for the school community.

Chair of HLC Friends, Mrs Hannah Luck said:

“The new playground for Highfield is more than just a nice climbing frame.

“Together with the “Quiet Zone”, and upgraded play equipment, it’s given our children a diverse, engaging, fun and safe space to use for those all-important outdoor breaks from the classroom.

“HLC Friends is very proud to have been able to support this project and grateful to all of the parents and friends in our community who generously contributed towards it.”

Highfield also welcomed Harrogate Town mascot Harry Gator, to the grand opening.

More from Local News

Martin House hits £2 million retail milestone after surging online sales

Martin House Children's Hospice has reached a major milestone in its retail operations, generating £2 million in sales over the past year.
Harrogate primary school's colour run fundraiser set to return

A popular fundraising event at Coppice Valley Primary School is set to return following a successful debut last year.
Royal recognition for Ripon community hero

A Ripon crossing patrol officer who has helped keep families safe for nearly a decade is set to receive royal recognition at a Buckingham Palace garden party.
Ripon prepares for city's 'biggest ever display' celebrating history and heritage

Ripon is preparing for what organisers describe as its "biggest ever display" to celebrate the city's history, heritage and community spirit.
FIFTY TWO at Rudding Park launches new lunch service

Luxury Harrogate hotel Rudding Park has announced that its immersive FIFTY TWO restaurant will introduce a new lunch service.
Motor rollers to be showcased at Tractor Fest

Road motor roller fans can enjoy a rare treat at this year’s Tractor Fest being held at Newby Hall and Gardens near Ripon.
Stockeld Park launches new on-site glamping tents

Stockeld Park is set to expand its on-site accommodation offering with the launch of brand new bell tents.
Ripon boy, 6, wins bronze at national jujitsu competition

A 6-year-old boy from Ripon has secured a bronze medal at a national jujitsu competition after taking on some of the country's top young fighters.
Restaurant stopped from giving customers free lift home

A restaurant owner says she feels a council decision to stop her husband giving customers a free lift home after their meal is "a bit harsh".
CCTV appeal following NEXT theft in Harrogate

North Yorkshire Police have issued CCTV of a person they would like to speak to.
Harrogate District Hospital to host open days as part of Health in Harrogate

Harrogate District Hospital is inviting local residents to step behind the scenes at two open days next month and discover more about how their local hospital works.
"Getting to work shouldn’t be a post-code lottery" says Harrogate MP

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP, Tom Gordon is challenging disabled bus pass restrictions.
22 year old Harrogate man sets to take on Half Ironman for charity

22 year old Freddie from Harrogate is set to take part in the Half Ironman in Vietnam.
New owners of Black A Moor pub explain reason behind name change

The new owners of a historic pub near Ripon have confirmed they will change its name to make the venue 'more inclusive' whilst preserving its heritage.
Council issues fly-tipping warning as new waste rules come into force

Residents are being warned that fly-tipping will not be tolerated as new rules come into force at North Yorkshire’s recycling centres.
Harrogate women crowned winners at international fitness competition

Two athletes from Harrogate have been crowned champions at an international fitness competition.
Another Harrogate charity shop to appear on hit BBC One show

Another Harrogate charity shop is set to appear on a brand new TV series on BBC One today (Tuesday).
Harrogate teen conquers marathon for Leukaemia charity - two days after 18th birthday

A Harrogate teenager has completed the London Marathon just two days after turning 18, raising £2,700 for charity.
Former Ripon mayor launches 29-mile charity run ahead of 70th birthday

A Ripon community leader is preparing to run nearly 30 miles between two historic landmarks as part of a personal fundraising challenge.
Little Ripon Bookshop shortlisted at national British Book Awards

An independent bookshop in Ripon has been shortlisted for a national honour at the British Book Awards.