ENHANCING THE POTENTIAL OF SPORTS FACILITIES AT SCHOOLS

The design and condition of school buildings, as well as the creation of welcoming, suitable and pleasant environments, are significant factors that impact parents’ school selection and have an important impact on the learning process and children’s well-being. The lack of sports facilities in our schools complicates the teaching process and puts physical education teachers under pressure to come up with non-ideal solutions to complete the course, especially during rainy and snowy seasons. Academic success and mental development are often prioritized by educational institutions, but physical activity-related matters are frequently disregarded, and as a consequence sports environments in schools do not receive sufficient attention. Many times, the lacking of school sport halls are justified by the lack of funding for their construction and maintenance. However, these areas are very vital not only for school students but also for the community as a whole, as they can serve as central points for a variety of social, athletic and cultural events. In some cases, they can also be financially beneficial; schools can rent them and generate income. The purpose of this research is to analyze the current state of sports facilities in the schools of Tetovo, how Tetovo citizens perceive the value of these facilities and how that affects the use and design of such services. Based on the research developed through surveys and field observation will be offered suggestions on the design of new sports spaces and improvement of old ones. This research is not meant to address detailed aspects of the design of these facilities, but it is a review of the main concerns that need to be covered in the schools of Tetovo.