Birmingham Airport has donated £5,000 to help create a brand-new outdoor play area for early years pupils at Balsall Common Primary School Academy.
The funding, awarded through the Birmingham Airport Community Trust Fund, supported the school’s vision to improve outdoor learning, physical activity, and creative play for children aged three to five. Additional contributions came from Knowle United Charities, The Lant, and Balsall Parish Council.
The new facility was officially opened on 11 September 2025 at a special partnership event recognising the organisations and families who helped bring the project to life.
Tom Denton, Head of Sustainability at Birmingham Airport, said:
“The trustees chose to support this project because outdoor play is vital for children’s physical, creative and social development. We’re delighted to help provide a safe and exciting space that will make a real difference for local families.”
Emma Christian, Early Years Lead at Balsall Common Primary School Academy, added:
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to this project — from the funding organisations to our Nursery and Reception families who supported our vision. Thanks to this collaboration, our youngest pupils now have a wonderful new space to learn, play, and grow.”
The Birmingham Airport Community Trust Fund makes regular grants to support local initiatives. The next round of awards will be announced in October 2025, with applications closing on Friday 19 September. More details are available on the airport’s Community Investment webpage.