Treetops Free School in Thurrock have created a fully equipped inclusive gym. They have done this by converting their old minibus garage into a space that can be used by all. Together with the help of Alt Movement and the Opening Schools Facilities Fund.
Where Did the Inclusive Gym Begin?
In 2022 when Anthony Hattam, Headteacher at Treetops Free School, met with Craig from Alt Movement through a local councillor. As a result, the journey of the movement started to take shape.
“From the moment we walked into the gym and saw people of all abilities doing squats adapted to their needs, we knew we had to work together,” said Anthony.
Thanks to the Opening Schools Facilities (OSF) fund, the school began running after-school fitness clubs led by Craig and his team. Allowing students access to inclusive, adaptive physical activity.
A proposal was submitted in 2023 to begin the conversion of the unused minibus garage into their dedicated inclusive gym space. Through the use of OSF funding and Craigs construction work the garage was successfully transformed into a fully equipped CrossFit gym by April 2024.
“This wasn’t just about equipment,” said Anthony. “It was about creating a space where everyone feels welcome, supported, and challenged.”
Why Is This More Than Just a Gym?
This project was more than just making an inclusive gym for people to get fit. It is an example of what can be possible when people work together to accomplish something. Not only that but it shows how physical exercise can be inclusive and embedded into education. As well as what contribution it can bring into long term health and mental wellbeing.
The success of the Treetops and Alt Movement collaboration hasn’t gone ignored. Tom Weller, Relationship Development Officer at Active Essex and lead for the Opening Schools Facilities (OSF) fund across the county, has been closely involved in supporting the project from the start.
“Treetops Free School have showcased outstanding work in growing SEND provision across their school and wider community. Their innovative use of the OSF funding has significantly expanded opportunities for young people with disabilities, creating inclusive and meaningful sessions that truly benefit the community.”
How Did Strong Partnerships Make a Difference?
Tom emphasised that what sets Treetops apart is not just the transformation of the space, but the strength of the relationships they’ve also built along the way.
“A key part of their success has been their commitment to building strong partnerships with local organisations such as Alt Movement. This collaboration has enabled them to deliver high-quality, inclusive physical activity opportunities that are sustainable and community-driven.”
He also praised the school’s leadership and vision:
“Anthony Hattam and the team at Treetops have been a pleasure to work with. Their passion, creativity, and willingness to go above and beyond for their students and the wider community is truly inspiring. This project is a shining example of how schools can become community hubs for inclusive activity.”
Tom highlights the broader impact of the project. Not just on students, but on families, local residents, and the wider SEND community across Essex. This is a perfect example of what can be done given the chance.
What’s Next for Inclusive Fitness at Treetops?
But that’s not all!
Craig has been working with partners on Wodaptive where they organise and deliver para-athlete functional fitness competitions. They are inclusive competitions, where teams consist of one able-bodied athlete and one adaptive athlete. With two successful events already held and a third planned for September 2025, the competitions have grown rapidly in popularity. Tickets have been selling out in record time. The Trust is proud to have been selected to host the February 2026 event, with the potential to support additional competitions in the future. This sort of recognition emphasises the schools part in inclusive physical activity in Essex.
Through Treetops Free School’s collaboration with Alt Movement and with the contribution of the Opening Schools Facilities Fund, a space has been created that allows people of all abilities to move and grow. The journey will continue to have lasting impacts on students, families and the local community.
