Over the past few weeks, students from the Quirky Quibbler interviewed more than 50 students from Grades 6-11 to better understand how students feel about the school playground and its recent changes. Unfortunately, the playground received an average rating of 4 out of 10, while the parkour extension was rated even lower, at 3 out of 10. The message is clear, many students are disappointed. But why is this?  

To follow up on these concerns, we interviewed Middle School Principal Michael Moore to get a direct response to student questions and frustrations.

One of the biggest concerns among students is the removal of the swings, which many described as one of the most enjoyable parts of the playground. However, there was a reason behind this action and not for the reasons people thought. Mr. Moore explained that the swings were removed due to ongoing safety issues caused by improper use, despite repeated instructions from supervising teachers. These incidents forced teachers to physically stop students on the swings and eventually led to administrative involvement because of concerns about workplace safety. Principal Moore emphasized that this does not mean the swings are permanently gone, and that the school is working with the student council to reintroduce them safely in the coming months.

Students also shared strong opinions about the new parkour area, with several describing it as unappealing or impractical. Indeed, one student went so far as to describe it as “a torture chamber made using toilet pipes”. Many students felt that this space does not meet their needs and would have preferred a different type of extension. According to Principal Moore,  he was not involved in choosing the parkour design and said the issue is unable to be fixed by the school as the decision was primarily made by the landlord and city. Additionally, the equipment appears lower than expected due to the way it was installed and covered with deep sand. 

Students also raised concerns about the lack of footballs and basketballs. Mr Moore explained that balls frequently go missing, often because they are left outside after breaks or not returned to storage properly. Since the school does not have unlimited funds to replace equipment, he emphasized the need for students to return balls to the blue basket after use. He also noted that students are welcome to bring their own balls from home if they wish to play during breaks, while mentioning that more balls would be purchased once the weather begins to improve.

Students also noticed that the basketball court and table tennis area are slanted. According to Mr. Moore, this slant is likely intentional for drainage. “Fixing” it would be difficult because the school leases the building rather than owning it, and any changes would require approval from the landlord, the city, and historical authorities, as the site is classified as a historical location.

Many students questioned why there is a large empty gravel area near the playground. Principal Moore explained that this space belongs to the landlord, and is used for public events such as May Day celebrations and occasional summer activities as part of the lease agreement; the school is not allowed to build permanent structures there, even though it appears unused during the school year.

While many of these decisions are influenced by safety rules, funding, and lease restrictions, students are encouraged to continue sharing their ideas. Students can always bring suggestions or concerns about the playground to their student council representatives, who can raise these ideas with school administration.