17/06/2026
Our school grounds have had a bit of a rough time lately.
It appears that some of our downpipes have decided they would rather live somewhere else (someone must have a project on the go), and a few other pieces of school property have been treated in ways that suggest they may have upset someone. We have searched extensively, but so far none of the missing items have wandered home on their own. (Although our playground bridge has been reinstated by Langdon Construction – thank you.)
While there is a temptation to see this as a bit of harmless fun, the reality is quite different.
Every downpipe, fence panel, garden feature, bike rack, seat, gate, swing, bridge and piece of equipment belongs to the children of Stoke School. When something is damaged or removed, it is not the school that misses out; it is our students. Money that could be spent on learning resources, playground improvements, books, sports equipment, or opportunities for children instead needs to be spent replacing things that were working perfectly well before they disappeared.
We have also noticed that some older children and teenagers are using the grounds after hours in ways that are not always respectful of the space - and in their school uniforms too. We know that most young people are responsible and considerate, but climbing on equipment not designed for their age, leaving rubbish behind, damaging property, or treating the grounds as a place to test boundaries creates problems for everyone. The children who attend Stoke School are the ones who ultimately miss out.
Schools are community places. We work hard to create a space where children feel safe, proud, and excited to learn. Seeing damage to that environment sends the opposite message.
We know that most people who use our grounds after hours treat them with care and respect. We are grateful for that. If you happen to see vandalism, theft, or behaviour that does not look right, please consider speaking up, reporting it, or letting the school know. Sometimes a quiet word from a community member can make all the difference.
Our students deserve grounds that are looked after, equipment that remains where it belongs, and a community that values the spaces they use every day.
So, if anyone happens to know where a few wandering downpipes have gone, we'd love to welcome them home.
Ngā mihi
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