A much-loved former member of staff who spent almost three decades supporting children at an Amesbury school has been honoured with a lasting tribute in recognition of her dedication to generations of pupils.
Christ the King Catholic School has officially opened a new outdoor gym named after former midday supervisor Kath Blackman, whose contribution to the school community has left a lasting impression on staff, pupils and families alike.
Mrs Blackman first became part of school life nearly 30 years ago when she worked as a lollipop lady helping children safely cross the road. Over the years she took on a variety of roles within the school, including supporting pupils with reading and serving as a midday supervisor.
Although she retired in December, school leaders say she remains a cherished member of the Christ the King community.
The newly installed facility, officially named “Mrs Blackman’s Outdoor Gym”, has been created on the school field and is designed to encourage children to stay active during playtimes and lunch breaks.
Funding for the project came through a combination of school fundraising activities and support from the local parish community, whose donations helped the school reach its target.
The gym equipment was designed and installed by Sunshine Gym, which also created bespoke signage recognising Mrs Blackman’s years of service.
The tribute reflects the school’s strong focus on community and its commitment to celebrating those who have played an important role in the lives of local children and families.
Headteacher Sophie Short said Mrs Blackman’s influence had been felt by countless pupils over the years.
She said: “Mrs Blackman has been such a special part of our school family for so many years and has supported generations of children with warmth, kindness and care.
“Even after her retirement, she remains very much part of Christ the King, so it felt only right that we recognised her in a way that will continue to bring joy to our pupils for years to come.”
Mrs Short also thanked the parish community for helping bring the project to life.
Support for the outdoor gym came from members of Christ the King Roman Catholic Church, whose fundraising efforts helped provide the final funding needed for the installation.
Michael FitzPatrick, Chair of the Parish Pastoral Council, said the parish was delighted to support a project honouring someone who had given so much to the school.
“We are very proud of Christ the King and the staff who have built such a strong, caring school community over many years,” he said.
“When the opportunity came to support this project in honour of Mrs Blackman, we were delighted to contribute through parish fundraising and donations, helping create something that will benefit children for years to come.”
The tribute has also been welcomed by the school’s academy trust.
Helen Taylor, Chief Executive of Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, described the project as a fitting recognition of Mrs Blackman’s commitment to the community.
She said: “Christ the King has always been at the heart of its community, and this is a wonderful way to recognise someone who has given so much to generations of children and families.”
For pupils enjoying the new equipment, the outdoor gym provides a fun way to stay active. For staff, families and former pupils, it will also stand as a lasting reminder of a woman whose kindness and dedication helped shape school life in Amesbury for nearly three decades.
