Schools
23 September, 2025
Playground with a heart
LOWOOD State School’s (SS) Early Childhood Developmental Program (ECDP) has been given new life, thanks to a remarkable partnership with Lowood State High School’s (SHS) Hands on Learning Department.
What was once a bare and uninspiring playground is now a vibrant, engaging space, filled with sensory boards and garden beds—designed and built by high school students under the guidance of their teacher, Dennis Ward.
The ECDP supports children with suspected or confirmed diagnoses in areas such as autism spectrum disorder, hearing impairment, intellectual or physical disability, speech-language impairment, or vision impairment. The program provides vital early intervention before children begin Prep, giving them the skills to transition successfully into school life, with Lowood and Toogoolawah being the only Somerset state schools to offer the ECDP program.
Head of Special Education at Lowood SS, Cobie Allinson, complimented the Hands on Learning students’ hard work and beautiful final product.
“They poured their creativity, energy and kindness into building sensory boards for our little ones,” she said.
“What they have created is so much more than play equipment—it is an invitation to explore, to connect and to grow.”
The project was a true community effort. High school students took on every aspect of the build, from measuring and planning to painting and assembling the sensory walls, while the state school paid for all the necessary supplies.
The five different boards are designed to help children develop motor skills, social and emotional understanding, and problem-solving abilities—all through joyful, hands-on experiences. One board even involves a water wall, with the high school students putting together the pump system, pipes and play elements.
Parents, staff, and students gathered to celebrate the new space on September 18, with certificates awarded to the high schoolers who made it possible.
“The pride and ownership the Hands on Learning students have shown throughout this project is deeply moving,” Ms Allinson said.
“Their hard work has transformed a space that was once bare into one that is colourful, engaging and full of possibility.”
The benefits extend beyond the playground, as it provides future high school students the chance to maintain the project when necessary, further strengthening a sense of connection between the primary and high schools.
“The Hands on Learning students have created something that will bring smiles, confidence and learning to children who need it most,” Ms Allinson said.
Lowood State School extends its heartfelt thanks to Dennis Ward, the Hands on Learning students, and everyone at Lowood SHS and SS who helped make this vision a reality.
