St. Michael’s House Special National School in Baldoyle is delighted to announce that we have been awarded a grant of €22,400 from the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal, administered by Community Foundation Ireland (RCN: 20044886).
This generous funding will be used to develop a fully accessible, sensory-rich playground on our school grounds. The new playground will provide a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment where all our students—children with complex needs arising from a disability—can enjoy meaningful play, enhance their physical and sensory development, and build social and emotional confidence.
The core aim of the project is to ensure that every child, regardless of their mobility or sensory needs, has access to a play space that supports their abilities and fosters a sense of belonging. The design of the playground will focus on inclusive features such as wheelchair-accessible equipment, sensory panels, and supportive play structures that encourage exploration and interaction in a safe environment.
The grant from the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal will enable the school to purchase specialised playground equipment that is accessible to all students. The funding will also support the installation of equipment that promotes sensory engagement, motor skills development, and inclusive group play.
Principal Ms. Anna Lombard Perito shared:
"This grant is a transformative opportunity for our school. It will allow us to create a playground where every child, regardless of their individual challenges, can play freely, safely, and joyfully. Play is a powerful tool for learning, connection, and development—and now, thanks to the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal, we can make inclusive play a reality for all our students."
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal and Community Foundation Ireland for their support in helping us build a space that reflects our school’s values of inclusion, respect, and opportunity for every child.