New construction ensures inclusive access for everyone
Special Report, By Stage Three Tea Trees
“Beep! Bang! Crunch!” Have you wondered why all this construction is happening at Putney? Press Gang Tea Trees investigated to bring you this special report.
At the moment, our school is constructing ramps, lifts and safety rails into our school to ensure disabled people can access all areas and enjoy a healthy education.
The changes are for people who have disabilities for example, people with physical disabilities and use wheelchairs because it is hard for them to go up and downstairs.
These changes for example the elevator makes things like the library and upstairs classrooms accessible for kids with disabilities. The changes make the kids feel more included by having to find ways around the problem but fixing it so they can still participate.
Kids who use wheelchairs can’t access specific areas which makes them feel insecure. They may feel left out because they can’t explore the school like everyone else, but with ramps, elevators and other things it will make them feel included and part of the school.
According to the NSW Government public spaces need to be inclusive for people with disabilities so they can feel welcome into the community. These environments include school, parks, roads, public transport stations and shopping centres. If we can make these spaces inclusive, people with disabilities can feel like they belong.
Things that are changing all around the school include the new handball courts or the new paintings on the ground, though there isn’t only paint, there are the new lifts, paths, and even some of the building names will change.
Near the library it has been decided to build a lift for disabled students and staff. They have also added ramps so it is easier to get onto the pathway. Finally, they are making a smoother pathway leading to the office at the front gate so it is easier to access.
Safety on construction sites is very important because of all the dangerous parts that are in there. Whatever the teachers tell you to do or not to do, like climbing fences or going near sharp tools, needs to be followed by all students and staff. There are signs around to help with this.
Students and staff with disabilities should be given the same opportunities and be treated fairly. New construction will provide easier movement around our school for people with disabilities. Everyone deserves to have accessibility and be included in everything.
