With no pool on-site, a Pāpāmoa primary school has found another way for its 495 students to enjoy learning from water-based play.

Golden Sands School officially opened its new water play area this week for Years 0-6 pupils – aged 5 to 11 – to further embrace a learning-through-play philosophy the school adopted when it opened in 2011.

Principal Melanie Taylor said the addition of the water play area aligned with the philosophy, providing students with another hands-on, interactive space that encourages exploration and creativity.

“With an established playground and quiet area already in place, the school identified water play as a valuable addition, drawing inspiration from similar facilities in other schools.”

Taylor said the idea generated immediate enthusiasm among students.

“With no swimming pool on-site, the thought of water-based play was extremely appealing to the children.

Ten-year-olds Mila Kinf, Jayne Corlett and Frankie Merry give the water wheel a spin. Photo / Kelly O’Hara

“We encourage creative thinking, and we believe this new area will further stimulate imagination and problem-solving.”

The Playground Centre, a company experienced in designing interactive water play installations, developed a concept tailored to the school’s available space and educational goals.

After consultation and refinements to ensure suitability and safety, the final design was approved last December, and construction began at the end of January. After a few teething problems, Taylor said the area was fully operational this week.

The area is designed to be both enjoyable and educational, with pipes, water wheels, dams, sluices and flowing water all part of it.

The development also represents 18 months of fundraising by the Friends of Golden Sands Primary. Through a series of events and activities, the group raised $80,000, Taylor said, while the school board contributed additional funding to ensure the project could be delivered.

Beyond promoting physical activity, Taylor said the water play area supported cognitive development and socio-emotional growth through cooperative and imaginative play.

Built with durability in mind, the structure is expected to serve the school for many years to come.