“Not all classrooms have four walls.”
Dobcroft Primary School was looking for the perfect company to transform their Key Stage 1 (KS1) area. They had already talked to 5 other companies, but none of them seemed right for the job. Feeling a bit stuck, they decided to contact another local school that had their KS1 area developed recently. That school had worked with us, Precision Timber, and was very happy with the results. They gave us a glowing recommendation. So, Dobcroft Primary School decided to reach out to us, hoping we could help bring their vision to life.
Dobcroft Primary School wanted to create a special outdoor area for their primary school in which children could learn and play in many different ways. They wanted a place for musical play, where children can make music together. They also wanted an area for investigative play, where children could explore and discover new things. The school hoped to enhance roleplay activities and even take some of their lessons outside with a new amphitheatre. The children loved playing in the bushes, but it was too overgrown and unsafe. The school wanted to make this area safe and fun for the children to enjoy.
When designing the new KS1 area for Dobcroft Primary School, we put a lot of thought into making it special and meaningful. There was a memorial tree planted for a child, and we wanted to bring this area back to life. So, we created a sensory path that went through the area, using the natural environment to make it beautiful and engaging. We also designed an amphitheatre with seating directly in front of the existing stage, making it perfect for outdoor lessons and performances. Finally, we made sure that the new flooring blended seamlessly with the current paving slabs, so everything looked neat and well-connected.
Before we started the project, the KS1 area was not in good shape. It was overgrown with weeds and bushes, making it look messy and uncared for. There were many trip hazards because the paving slabs were lifting up from the tree roots, which made it unsafe for the children to play there. The space was run down and needed a lot of work to become a fun and safe place for the children to enjoy.
To create a wonderful playground for Dobcroft Primary School, we carefully chose specific items that would be both functional and appealing. First, we used Flexi Pave, a soft yet non-slip surfacing material. This was essential because of the tree roots in the area, ensuring the ground was safe for the children to play on without slipping or tripping. We also used Robina and waney edge timbers to give the playground a rustic and quirky look. These materials helped the new area blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, making it feel like a part of the existing landscape. To further enhance the playground, we created a sensory path. This path was designed to improve the children’s motor skills and coordination as they walked, ran, and played on it. Additionally, we installed amphitheatre seating in the prime position right in front of the existing stage. This provided a perfect spot for outdoor lessons and performances. Lastly, we added planters to encourage wildlife. These planters not only made the area more attractive but also helped teach the children about nature and the importance of caring for the environment.
Yes, the outcome exceeded the customers’ expectations! Dobcroft Primary School loved the design from the very beginning, and they were even more thrilled with the finished area. The new playground perfectly matched their vision of a space where children could enjoy outdoor play, learn, and explore safely. The sensory path, amphitheatre seating, and natural materials created a beautiful and functional environment. The teachers and children were delighted with the transformation, as it provided a variety of new opportunities for imaginative and physical play, as well as outdoor lessons. The once overgrown and hazardous area became a vibrant, engaging, and safe space that everyone at the school could enjoy.
The feedback from Dobcroft Primary School was overwhelmingly positive! They were extremely happy with the transformation of their KS1 area. The new playground has made a significant difference to the school environment and has greatly enhanced the children’s play experience. Teachers and children alike have noticed how the new space encourages more imaginative and active play, as well as providing a wonderful setting for outdoor lessons. The once unsafe and overgrown area is now a favourite spot for the children, filled with laughter and learning. The school expressed their gratitude for the thoughtful design and high-quality craftsmanship, noting that it has positively impacted the overall atmosphere and functionality of their outdoor space.
The children absolutely love their new play area! It has quickly become the highlight of their school day. Watching the children explore and enjoy the space has been incredibly rewarding. They delight in putting on outdoor performances in the amphitheatre, showcasing their creativity and confidence. The sensory path has become a favourite, with children skipping up and down, enhancing their motor skills while having fun. The musical instruments have inspired spontaneous concerts, as children experiment with sounds and rhythms, making joyful tunes together. The transformation has truly revitalised their outdoor time, encouraging more active, imaginative, and social play. The excitement and happiness on their faces are clear indicators of the project’s success. We are thrilled with the positive impact the new area has had and can’t wait to return for part two, to continue enhancing the school’s outdoor environment and support the children’s growth and enjoyment even further.
