Opening School Facilities Impact across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin

The Opening School Facilities (OSF) programme, which enabled schools to open their sports halls, playgrounds, and other facilities outside of regular school hours, has successfully helped thousands of people in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin get active by providing accessible spaces for sport and physical activity.

Although the programme came to an end March 2025, it was designed to be sustainable, with activities and community use continuing beyond the funding period. Schools involved in the initiative have opened their doors to pupils, families, and local residents, offering opportunities ranging from after-school clubs to fitness classes, wellbeing hours to community sports sessions.

Energize Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, who have worked alongside schools to deliver the programme locally, have published an impact report showcasing the difference the initiative has made. The report highlights increased access to physical activity opportunities across the county, improved community engagement, and inspiring stories from participating schools.

Just some of the highlights:

• 18 schools were supported across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin
• 4,319 children participated
• 1,222 pupils were from ethnically diverse communities
• 587 local residents tried activities
• £480,224 was invested.

Read the full impact report here

Schools who took part are being encouraged to continue building on the progress made, while other schools are invited to explore how they too can open their facilities to benefit local communities in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin.

If you’d like any more information, please email Harry Cade, Head of Performance and Learning at Energize STW: harry.cade@energizestw.org.uk