Friday 29th May saw members of Tees Tablers Lodge 9564 complete phase 2 of their community engagement project with Applegarth Primary School in Northallerton.

This is part of a project to assist in making a significant difference in the lives of the students and the future of the community. As children also learn through play, as well as in the traditional classroom setting, the school has committed to an initiative called Outside Play and Learning (OPAL). This helps the children to enhance their education and develop skills outside of the classroom.

In October 2025, 30 pairs of wellies were donated to the school. At the request of the school, phase 2 of the project was to build a sandpit for the children. With support from local farm and garden suppliers, Sam Turner & Sons, supplies were delivered and 4 lodge members set about building the sandpit. On completion, it was handed over to Emma Coatsworth (OPAL co-ordinator); whose sons gave the sandpit a trial run before the remainder of the school returned from half-term.

The continued community engagement from Tees Tablers Lodge will hopefully, help the school maintain their 'Gold' status in future OPAL inspections.