Benefits
Comments from the BHASVIC Sports Department:
‘We are submitting this proposal to request planning approval for the development of a new Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) and netball court at Brighton Hove and Sussex Sixth Form College (BHASVIC). This development is essential to address a significant shortfall in our current sports and outdoor education provision, and to enhance both student experience and community engagement.
Our existing provision is limited and does not meet the needs of our student population. The college has no dedicated outdoor space for physical education, which severely restricts the curriculum we can offer and limits opportunities for students to engage in regular physical activity.
The grass pitches available to us are in poor condition and frequently unusable due to weatherrelated issues. This not only disrupts scheduled lessons and extracurricular activities but also poses safety concerns for students. The inconsistency of these facilities undermines our ability to deliver a high-quality and reliable sports programme.
Benefits
- Will provide much needed, high quality outdoor space
- Can be used across a wide range of lessons
- Biology, Environmental Science and Drama could all benefit
- This facility will enrich the educational experience and support a more holistic approach to student development
- The new facility will be made available to the local community
- We will be able to support local sports clubs and youth groups
- This represents a vital investment in the future of our students and community
Due to the lack of suitable on-site options, BHASVIC is forced to hire external sports facilities. This incurs significant financial costs and logistical challenges, including transportation and scheduling constraints. These factors reduce the time students can spend in active learning and place additional strain on college resources.
The proposed AGP and netball court would provide a much-needed, high-quality outdoor space that can be used across a wide range of lessons, not limited to physical education. Subjects such as biology, environmental science, and even drama could benefit from access to outdoor environments for practical learning. This would enrich the educational experience and support a more holistic approach to student development.
Image supplied by Surfacing Standards Ltd – illustrative example of an AGP & MUGA facility.
Beyond college hours, the new facilities would be made available to the local community. This aligns with BHASVIC’s commitment to civic responsibility and community partnership. By opening the AGP and netball court for evening and weekend use, we can support local sports clubs, youth groups, and recreational leagues, helping to address the wider shortage of quality sports facilities in the area.
The development of a new AGP and netball court at BHASVIC is a vital investment in the future of our students and our community. It will address longstanding issues with inadequate facilities, reduce reliance on costly external venues, and provide a versatile space that enhances both education and community wellbeing.’