North East

“Creative and wondrous, filled with inspirational and unforgettable learning experiences.”

That’s what a primary school experience should be, according to Glebe Academy in Stoke-on-Trent.

 

Headteacher Suzanne Oakes-Smith wants pupils to enjoy and achieve in a safe, magical place to learn and has high expectations of them. Situated in a highly deprived, heavily built up area, many houses have no gardens so opportunities for children to play safely outdoors are limited. The school wanted to tackle that problem head on and turned to Playforce for help.

We talked to the staff and children at Djanogly Northgate Academy, part of the Djanogly Learning Trust about their brand new playground developments.

The pupils at Abbey Gate College are learning and playing in the great outdoors thanks to their new playground equipment. Headteacher Rebecca Findlay tells us how they are developing a great range of skills outside.

Wanting to make the most of their beautiful rural surroundings, Aberdour School was looking for play equipment that would encourage natural, active play. They tell us how their Woodland Climber has inspired their pupils to seek outdoor play in any environment.

Ainslie Wood Primary School in London enjoys the benefits of developing a brighter and better playground. The children of Ainslie Wood Primary School have the space to combine outdoor learning with educational play in their new playground. Headteacher Kate Jennings tells us how the school has benefited from the new development.

The new playground at Allenton Community Primary School gives pupils of all ages the chance to play and learn outdoors. Mrs Tilley tells us how the space and equipment has helped them receive an outstanding Ofsted report.

The children of All Saints CE Primary School have had their wishes come true thanks to their new playground development.

The new playground at All Saints Primary School is a space where the staff and children can enjoy safe outdoor learning and educational play.

Aloeric Primary School benefits from innovative and inspiring outdoor learning environment.

The new playground development at Aloeric Primary School brings together outdoor learning and educational play in an environment that is stimulating and motivational.

The Ambler Children’s Centre wanted to give their playground a spring clean in time for the summer. They tell us how a Play Store has helped them make more space to play.

The School Council helped to form the basis for the new playground design at Angel Road Junior School in Norwich. Headteacher Len Holman explains how their new playground has provided an exciting addition to playtime activities.

Anthony Bek Community Primary School wanted to develop their Early Years outdoor space. The Focus for this space was to create an area for Physical Development and other learrning opportunities outside to help the development of the children.

In order to add more variety to their playground, Arbour Vale Specialist School Sports College chose new equipment that would help them combine play with sports. They tell us how it has changed their daily routine and helped improve a range of skills.

As part of the school’s ‘Active Challenge’, the pupils at Ashley Infant School are benefiting from a new playground development that allows them to test their physical skills. Headteacher Pauline Dukes tells us how the new equipment has improved the school’s fitness.

Ashmead Combined School have transformed their playground to provide all of their pupils with opportunities for outdoor learning. They tell us how their new play equipment has helped bridge the gap between the classroom and the playground.

With fantastic school grounds to fill, Avishayes Primary School developed a new playground that would give their pupils an outdoor space in which to play and learn.

The pupils at Barleyhurst Park Primary School bounce back into the classroom after playing in their new playground. Headteacher Wendy Smith tells us how it has improved their motivation and creativity.

The Olympic Legacy has helped Barnabas Oley CE Primary School develop their playground into a fun new space for exercising. They tell us how their new play equipment has helped make the transition from play to sport.

At Beaumont Primary School the playground was much-loved but looking tired. They tell us how new play equipment has improved creative and active play as well as giving pupils a space to enjoy peace and quiet.

The children at Beckmead School were able to start the new school year with a fantastic playground. Principal Jonty Clarke tells us how the equipment is encouraging outdoor learning and educational play.

Playforce have worked with Bedgrove Infant School before to develop their playground and this time the staff wanted to bridge the gap between the classroom and the great outdoors. They tell us how another Playforce development has helped them add variety to their school day.

Beever Primary School is reaping the benefits of its new playground equipment designed and installed by Playforce. Headteacher Greg Oates tells us how the outdoor space has improved the children’s school day.

The staff at Bevington Primary School wanted to find a way to make moving between the classroom and the playground easier and more fun. They tell us how a Poddely set has changed the way they take part in free flow play.

The children at Bishop Tachbrook School had visions of a new playground that would allow them to play together and enjoy their break times, even on those dreaded rainy days. Headteacher, Andy Brettell shares his experience of how the school’s partnership with Playforce has allowed these children to realise their dreams and become part of the design process for their fantastic new outdoor area.

Black Brook Primary School installed their new playground four years ago but the equipment is still in high demand from both children and parents.

Blackfield Primary School combines outdoor learning with educational play in new outdoor space.
The junior and infant pupils at Blackfield Primary School are working together to find innovative and imaginative ways of using their new playground equipment.

Learning outdoors is of the highest importance to Bretherton Endowed CE Primary School in Leyland, Lancashire. The school achieves the highest standards, is judged to be ‘Outstanding’ in all areas and is one of the top performing primary schools in the country.

Free flow play was something that Bristol Grammar School wanted to deliver to their pupils in a new way. They tell us how a Poddely Set has enabled them to take part in flexible and creative fun.

Storytelling is a big part of the school day at Bridge Farm Primary and staff wanted to find a way to make it unique and more inspiring. They tell us how a new playground development has given them the opportunity to bring outdoor learning into the curriculum more easily.

Chris Chrystal, Headteacher at Bromley Heath Primary School, tells us about the ways in which their new playground installations have harnessed their pupils’ enthusiasm for learning outdoors and helped them to develop numerous skills both in and outside the classroom.

Brookside Primary School in Clitheroe wanted to create an outdoor learning environment where the children could play and exercise. Headteacher Mrs B. Allan tells us how their new playground has given Brookside Primary School more productive playtimes and exciting outdoor learning.

The extra fun and games inspired by a new timber trail at Brookvale Primary School has had a positive impact on the whole of school life.

Charlotte Gray-Sharpe at Broomfield tell’s us about their recent playground installation.

Calthorpe Special School in Birmingham wanted to create a playground that would offer a unique experience for each child. Headteacher Mr Hardy tells us how their new outdoor learning environment has encouraged creative thinking and exploration.

Wanting to find a more flexible and fun way to play, Carlton VC Lower School chose a Poddely Set to help them bridge the gap between the classroom and the playground. They tell us how they use it for everything from science lessons to story time.

The children at Casterton Primary School love their new playground equipment that they use for outdoor learning and educational play. Headteacher Mrs Crooks tells us how the new outdoor space has been a fantastic incentive for the children.

The children at the Chapter House Prep School in York can enjoy a daily dose of outdoor play no matter what is on their timetable, thanks to their new, flexible playground. They tell us how their new space changes how they play and learn.

Terry Hall, Head Teacher at Cherhill CE Primary School in Wiltshire, explains how pupils have started to initiate their own play and learning in a brand new outdoor area.

The children at Christ Church CE Primary School are enjoying playing and learning outdoors whatever the weather. Reception teacher Sorrel Morris from Christ Church CE Primary School tells us how their new playground has been used to make all areas of learning more fun.

Mrs Tracey Coton, Head Teacher at Christchurch CE Primary School in Surrey, explains how the developments to the EYFS and KS1 outdoor area has allowed pupils to initiate their own learning, use their imaginations and enjoy every minute of their school day!

Inspired by the 2012 Olympics, Churchfields VC Primary School wanted to develop a playground that would encourage their pupils to get outside and active.

A recent playground transformation at Clarendon Infant School has given pupils a fantastic outdoor space where they can play and learn. They tell us how their new play equipment has improved learning across the curriculum.

The old playground at Cockshutt CE Primary School was beginning to look a little tired and staff saw it as the perfect opportunity to transform it into something special. They tell us how their new outdoor space has improved exercise and active play.

Sandra Hunt, the Nursery Manager at Cornerstone Day Nursery and Pre School in Lewisham, tells us how their transformed outdoor area has been a big hit, enabling the children to become more creative.

At Corpus Christi Catholic Primary School, music lessons now have some extra natural inspiration. They tell us how their new playground means they can make as much noise as they want or have some quiet around their favourite tree.

At Cuddington and Dinton CE School, outdoor play was becoming limited by the space available. They wanted to find a way to utilise their school grounds and encourage more creative play. They tell us how modified and bespoke play equipment has helped them make the most of their playground.

The old playground at Cuddington Primary School was beginning to look outdated and Headteacher Yvonne Elliot wanted to create an outdoor classroom for learning and play. She tells us how the children have benefited from their new space.

Cumwhinton School wanted to give their playground a new lease of life that would encourage a range of outdoor play and learning. They tell us how their play equipment has improved physical skills as well as pupil interaction.

Daisyfield Primary School wanted to develop a playground that would encourage the Reception and Nursery pupils to take part in more outdoor play. Headteacher Joanne Shaw tell us how the school has benefited from the new space.

Deputy headteacher Jane Bailey wanted to divide a large area of tarmac into a number of different zones both for play and as an outdoor learning space.

The children at Dane Bank Primary School can enjoy outdoor learning and educational play all year round with their new playground equipment developed by Playforce.

The new additions to the outdoor area at Defford Cum Besford CE First School have seen the children take control of their playtimes. Headteacher Mrs Brown tells us how this has also benefitted the children’s learning in the process!

Djanogly Strelley Academy wanted to create more play space by increasing the overall size of their playground. Mr Tim Jeffs, Head of School, explains to us here how they worked with Playforce to achieve their dream space.

 

The children at Dog Kennel Hill Primary School are enjoying climbing, investigating, learning and playing in their new playground.

Wanting to find a way to encourage their pupils to take part in more active play, Edward Francis Primary School decided to develop their playground. They tell us how new play equipment has made play times natural, fun and full of exercise.

Elleray Park School wanted to develop their Early Years courtyard. The Focus for this space was to create an interactive and sensory area to help the development of the children.

The staff at Exeter Road Primary School wanted to find a way to incorporate more free flow play into the school day without using up a lot of space. They tell us how a new Poddely set has helped them bridge the gap between the classroom and the playground.

Fitzjohn’s Primary School in London wanted to create a safe outdoor learning environment where the children could thrive. Headteacher Rob Earrey tells us how their new playground has encouraged the pupils to combine outdoor learning with educational play to stimulate their imagination.

The children at the Flying Start Family Centre in Barry can now develop their learning skills in a safe and secure outdoor environment. Supervisor Sue Davis tells us how their new equipment allows the children to take a few risks and explore the world around them.

To encourage more active play in school and at home, Florendine Primary School wanted to develop a playground that was natural and inspiring. They tell us how their new Active Trail has improved a range of physical and social skills.

The staff at Frizington Nursery School wanted to provide their children with an open-ended space to learn and play. Lesley Savage tells us how they are using their new playground to encourage outdoor play whatever the weather.

For Headteacher Michele Thomas, improving learning experiences for younger children at Garfield Primary School has always been a top priority.

Regarding their latest playground development, she said, "At Garfield we recognise the importance of Early Years education. We strive to work in partnership with parents in order to ensure that children have the opportunities to fulfil their potential from their earliest educational experiences.”

The project was a big and exciting one for Garfield Primary School, they tell us how the new area has sparked their children’s interest in nature.

Headteacher Gareth Letton tells us about their exciting new outside space.

Challenging climbing frames, seating areas, and award-winning Poddely created the perfect KS2 play area at George Spicer Primary School.  According to one child it was “better than Disneyland”… We’ll take that!

School Business Manager, Esther Campbell, tells us why it has made such a difference to the children and the way learning is taken outside.

The children at Granard Children’s Centre, London are enjoying their vibrant new playground – making music, playing cars and learning about science

Working with the Local Authority, Greenbank Estate Residents Group has developed a local playground for the whole community to enjoy. They tell us how it has helped boost community spirit and bring people of all ages together.

Green Lane Primary School have developed their playground to encourage outdoor learning and educational play.
The children at Green Lane Primary School are enjoying their new outdoor space where they can learn about their environment and test out their physical skills.

Gwladys Street Community Primary and Nursery School wanted to develop their old Early Years area. The Focus for this space was to create an outdoor learning resource, where they could complete the seven areas of early years learning and development.

Looking for a new way to encourage free flow play, Hadley Wood Primary School chose a Poddely Set to bridge the gap between the classroom and the playground. They tell us how the children have benefited from flexible play and learning.

Hadrian Park Primary School can now learn and play in the great outdoors.
The new playground at Hadrian Park Primary School has provided the staff and pupils with an innovative way to combine outdoor learning with educational play.

Come rain or shine, Hallmoor Special School wanted to find a way to incorporate outdoor learning and play into their daily routine. They tell us how their new shelter has provided them with a way to do it.

Hallmoor Special School is enjoying a vibrant and exciting new playground that is accessible to all pupils. They tell us how everyone is benefiting from the transformed outdoor space.

Headteacher Sarah Kerswell explains how Playforce helped Hanborough Manor CE School to encourage pupils to access play resources independently and learn new skills.

Hardwick Primary School in Derby were lacking a space where all of their children could benefit from outdoor play and learning. They wanted to develop a safe environment where the students would be encouraged to be imaginative and interactive. They tell us how their new playground has helped get children moving, reduce bullying and has encouraged more fun outdoors!

The Early Years pupils at Hargate Primary School have the opportunity to develop their physical skills and have fun in their new playground.

The KS2 pupils at Herons Dale School have an imaginative way to play and learn with their new outdoor environment.

The old playground at Highbury Quadrant Primary School was lacking a space for the younger children to enjoy outdoor play. They tell us how their new equipment has opened up play and learning opportunities for the whole school.

The playground at Highfield School has become the perfect place to put on a show and become the next Mozart. They tell us how their new outdoor space has enabled them to put on their best Christmas performance yet.

The older children at Higham St. John’s Primary School were lacking a space where they could take on a challenge. A new playground development has been the perfect opportunity to improve their outdoor learning and educational play.

The Hochtief Facility Management UK Ltd office in Warrington wanted to develop their company nursery so that children of their employees would have a fun space where they could enjoy outdoor play. They tell us how their new play equipment helps bring children together and burn off excess energy.

The old playground at Hollywater School was lacking some outdoor inspiration. The staff wanted to add new equipment that would allow for messy, fun sand and water play. They tell us how variety in the school day has benefited staff and pupils.

A new playground transformation at Holt Mayfield and Lozells School has given the pupils a space to play, learn and create in. They tell us how their new equipment is being used in all areas of the curriculum.

The children at Holt Pre-School can now enjoy a combination of outdoor learning and educational play with innovative playground equipment.

Bursar Adele Mann explains how new Playforce playground equipment has opened up a wealth of new opportunities for outdoor learning for KS1 children.

The new playground at John Moore Primary School gives pupils of all age the chance to stretch their muscles and make new friends.

The new playground development at Keinton Mandeville Primary School allows the staff and pupils to combine outdoor learning with educational play in an exciting and imaginative way.

Creepy crawlies and creative climbers are all enjoying the new playground at Kender Primary School. They tell us how developing their outdoor space has changed the way the staff and pupils look at spending time outside.

Kalgarth Grange Day Nursery wanted an outdoor space as an outdoor learning resource, where they could complete the seven areas of the EYFS.

After years of fundraising Kings Park developed a Healthy and Active Zone, designed for the children by the children, that the school can enjoy for years to come.

With a countrywide increase in childhood obesity, Kingswood Junior School wanted to find a way to instill a positive attitude towards exercise in their pupils. They tell us how their new playground has helped make getting active fun.

The old playground at Knaphill School needed more space for play. Headteacher Kevin Davies tells us how the new additions to their play zone has given pupils the opportunity to enjoy a variety of activities in the great outdoors.

The playground in Knowsley Lane Primary School in Liverpool was in place but unsafe and did not meet children’s needs. Early Years Co-ordinator, Emma Dilworth, wanted an outdoor learning space that would enhance the children's learning opportunities.

The children at Laburnum Lower School are enjoying their ‘fantastic’ new playground whilst testing their physical and creative skills.

The playground at Lancasterian Primary School needed new equipment to encourage more outdoor, active play. They tell us how their latest development has helped their pupils get more active as well as improving their social skills.

Langley Mill Junior School in Nottingham swapped crumbling concrete for a brand new playground that encourages the children play in an imaginative and creative way. Headteacher Mrs L. Burgess tells us how the new equipment has changed the way the children express themselves.

In need of a new way to encourage free flow play at school, Leamington Primary wanted to find something that would turn the playground into an extension of the classroom.

Liden Primary School wanted to celebrate the arts outside whatever the weather. They tell us how a new music and drama performance area in their playground has helped them prepare for the summer show.

The playground at Little Bunnies Day Nursery was lacking equipment to inspire outdoor learning. They tell us how developing their space has adding variety and excitement to the daily routine.

Little Mead Primary Academy, in Bristol wanted to ensure their playground was inspiring.  Barbara Daykin, Headteacher and Tom Lewis-White, School Business Manager tell us a bit more about it here.

To boost creativity and encourage imaginative thinking, Little Plumstead CE Primary School decided to incorporate more free flow play to their daily routine. They tell us how a Poddely set helped add variety for the pupils and staff.

Little Robins Day Nursery in Birmingham wanted to create a playground that gave access to their beautiful gardens and stimulated the children’s play. Owner Jackie Howse tells us how their new playground encourages outdoor play all year round.

Llanedeyrn Primary School are testing out their strength in their new playground development.
The children at Llandedeyrn Primary School are developing a fantastic range of physical skills thanks to their new outdoor space and equipment.

There is a brand new way to get creative and active at Loddington CE Primary School with their latest playground development.

Long Marton Primary School wanted to develop their old, run down playground into a fun outdoor space where the children could work and play together to improve a range of skills. Headteacher Rachel Smith tells us how the new playground is used by everyone for creative and active play.

The staff at Manor Infant School wanted their pupils to see the playground as an extension of the classroom. They tell us how a new Poddely set has provided them with the opportunity to move freely between the two.

It was the ultimate dream of pupils, teachers and parents at Mapledene Primary School to transform the unattractive, dull playspace into an area fit for play and learning. In 2008, the school was successful in a £50,000 bid for the People’s Millions, a UK wide programme to fund projects that improve the quality of life through local communities.

The staff and children at Millfield Primary School were thrilled with their new Playforce playground, which provides challenging, active play for a range of ages.  Headteacher Deborah Hannaford talked to us about her experience and why she decided to use us for this project. 

The whole community helped Monkton Park Primary School fundraise for their fantastic new playground that allows the children to enjoy outdoor learning and educational play.

In need of a playground transformation, Murrayfield Primary School took it as an opportunity to create a fun and inspiring environment for their pupils. They tell us how their new play equipment has made play times and lessons exciting and imaginative.

Andrew Miller, Deputy Headteacher at New Delaval Primary School, explains how the installation of new playground equipment has not only transformed the outdoor area in their new school, but has also helped to achieve part of the school’s goal of providing the six areas of learning outdoors for the Foundation Stage.

The children at New Moston Primary School are enjoying climbing, investigating, learning and playing in their new playground.

Active and creative play were top priorities for New York Primary School. They tell us how their new playground has enabled them to incorporate it into all aspects of the school day.

In order to bridge the gap between the classroom and the playground, Oakthorpe Primary School introduced a Poddely set to their daily routine. They tell us how free flow play has benefited their pupils.

Head teacher, Mrs Debbie Kalynka tells us how a new Playforce designed outdoor area has provided the pupils with endless learning opportunities and encouraged good behaviour.

Outwoods Primary School wanted to find play equipment that would make them stand out from the crowd. They tell us how their new playground development has helped their pupils develop a range of skills.

The playground at Parson Street Primary School has been transformed into an inspiring outdoor space where learning and playing can coincide. Headteacher Mark Lacey tells us how the project has improved both play and learning outside the classroom.

The children at Queens Road Primary School can get up and close with their beautiful rural surroundings in their new outdoor classroom.

In search of a way to introduce more outdoor learning and play to their nursery pupils, Quinton Church Primary School wanted to develop a multi-purpose shelter in their playground. They tell us how the new sheltered space has encouraged variety and flexibility in the way they play and learn.

Finding a way to encourage more outdoor play without fixed playground equipment can be a challenge but Rainbow St Peters Pre-School tells us how their new Poddely set has broken the barrier between the classroom and the great outdoors.

Reddings Primary School and Nursery in Hemel Hempstead enhances its outdoor space to be used for learning and play all year round. The children are now able to take learning outside come rain or shine with their new playground development.

When Riverside Primary School in Hereford relocated, the outside area had not been developed. Headteacher Emma Shearer tells us how creating a new outdoor learning environment has encouraged co-operative and active play within the school.

When trying to find new ways to teach science and discovery, Riverhead Infant School decided to take things outside. They tell us how new play equipment has inspired budding scientists and helped encourage more outdoor learning and play.

The new playground at Ryder Hayes County Primary School provides the children with an outdoor space where they can have fun, learn and be safe.

In need of some inspiration for outdoor play, the playground at Ryhope Junior School was given a Playforce makeover. They tell us how it has improved play, learning and relaxing.

Making outdoor play and learning an exciting and natural experience was top priority for Ryvers School. They tell us how their new playground has changed the children’s attitudes towards exercise.

The old playground at Scantabout Primary School was lacking something unique. They decided to develop a new outdoor space that would inspire pupils and the community.

Scraptoft Valley Primary School in Leicestershire had a small outdoor environment that they decided to revamp.

Mrs Barbara Kent , Headteacher and Miss Lucy Frearson (Foundation Stage Coordinator) tell us all about it.

Inspired by the British Year of Sport, Selborne Primary School used the Olympic Legacy to develop their playground into a space for healthy, active play. They tell us how their new play equipment has helped pupils get excited about exercise.

Shenley Lodge Pre-School hits all the right notes with their new playground development.

Simon Marks Jewish Primary School wanted to create a natural escape in their school grounds. They tell us how their new playground equipment has given pupils the chance to explore woodlands and jungles.

South View Infant School wanted to create a permanent playground setup that the children could use to combine learning and play outside the classroom. Acting Headteacher Debbie Bertocchi tells us how the project has improved outdoor play and educational learning.

Creepy crawlies and planting sunflowers have helped the children at Spinney Hill Primary School understand the importance of caring for the environment. They tell us how their new playground has given them the chance to get their hands dirty.

Exercise used to be restricted to sports and team activities at Stanley Grove Junior and Infant School but their new playground equipment has given individual children the opportunity to take part in active play throughout the day.

The children at St. Ann’s Well Primary School have a rich outdoor learning environment where they can enjoy the natural world with their families and teachers.

Wanting to improve outdoor learning and play, St Anthonys RC Primary School decided to develop their playground into a fun and inspiring space. They tell us how their new equipment and outdoor classroom has benefited the staff and pupils.

The playground at St Bee’s Village School has had a makeover and now pupils are enjoying a new way to play outdoors. They tell us how they have benefited from their new outdoor space.

Stepping Stones in Trowbridge developed their playground into a stimulating outdoor environment accessible to all of their pupils. Barbara Jansen tells us how their new outdoor space encourages the children to get active and be creative.

The rain will no longer put a dampener on play time at Stickney Pre-School and Toddler Group with their new outdoor shelter.

St John Fisher Primary School needed a new area in their playground that would give pupils the opportunity to develop their agility and physical skills. They tell us how their new play equipment has helped the children be more creative, athletic and confident.

The children at St Johns the Baptist RC Primary School now have a space to play and learn in the great outdoors. Headteacher Mr Heakin tells us how the Early Years pupils are taking their lessons outside.

The playground at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Harrogate was lacking the resources to provide their KS1 children with outdoor play and learning. School Governor Alex Stappard tells us how they developed their playground into an outdoor space full of ample learning opportunities.

Inspired by the Olympics, St Joseph’s RC Primary School developed a playground that would make the transition between play and sport easy and fun.

The pupils of St. Keyna’s Primary School all worked together to raise the money for their new playground. Headteacher Adrienne Hughes explains how the project has encouraged the children to be innovative and imaginative as well as getting active.

With Ofsted placing a bigger focus on free flow play, St Lukes Primary School wanted to ensure that there pupils could move easily between the playground and the classroom.

A new storytelling and arts zone at St Margaret’s Academy in Torquay has provided a magical environment for the children to enjoy their surroundings and learn together. Bursar Mrs Nicki Rogers explains how the school worked with Playforce to design this new area of the playground.

With free flow play continuing to be an important part of the curriculum, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School wanted to encourage more creative and unlimited opportunities. They tell us how a Poddely Set has made moving between the playground and classroom simple.

Ruth Kieran, Deputy Headteacher at St.Nicholas CE VA Primary in Hertfordshire tells us how limited their outdoor space. They felt that there was much they could do to more fully utilize the space available, like having activities to engage and challenge the children in different ways. They also felt that this would have a positive impact on behaviour at break times.

A new playground at Stokenchurch Community PreSchool has not only resolved their health and safety concerns, it has improved the quality of play for their children in all weathers. Manager Angela Hawkins tells us more…

Play isn’t just a playground or classroom activity at Stone CE Combined School, it’s both. The staff wanted to find a way to make movement between the two more flexible and creative. A new Poddely set has helped them deliver this across the curriculum.

The children of St Patrick’s RC Primary School in Wigan can now keep active during lunchtimes by combining educational play with outdoor learning. Headteacher Sue Bruen tells us how the staff and children have benefited from their new equipment.

A new Timber Trail at St. Paulinus RC Primary School has provided the children with the motivation and stimulation to interact with their environment.

The children at St. Peter’s RC Primary School are spoilt for choice at playtime with their new and exciting playground equipment.

Phase one of a major playground development at St. Sampsons CE Primary School has given staff and pupils the inspiration to be active and healthy.

The children at Studfall Primary School can challenge their physical abilities with their new playground development from Playforce.

The staff at Sutton Day Nursery wanted to develop an outdoor space that was tailored to suit the needs of their present and prospective Early Years children. They tell us how creative and imaginative play has benefited the nursery.

Headteacher, Mr David Knight, describes how working with Playforce has allowed them to transform a small, inflexible area of the school into an attractive and enhanced learning space for the Reception children.

The staff, pupils and parents of Templars Infant and Nursery School can all take advantage of their new multi-purpose outdoor shelter.

The Small Blue Butterfly is just one of many who is benefiting from the development of the environmental eco-zone at The Avenue Primary School.

The children at The Court School now have the opportunity to take part in imaginative and creative play with their new playground equipment.

As part of a big refurbishment, The Jolly Farmers wanted to reinvent their pub garden into an interactive space for the whole family. They tell us how their new Active Trail has helped make the establishment more family-friendly and entertaining.

The staff at The Tower Primary School felt that they needed to encourage more movement between the classroom and the playground. A new Poddely set has enabled them to incorporate more free flow play into the school day and to break up their normal routine.

Outdoor learning and educational play are combined in the new playground development at Thorngumbald Primary School.

Katrina Tye, Head of Toad Hall Woking, has been using Poddely for almost a year now, along with some of the other nurseries in the Toad Hall chain. She shared her experience of Poddely with us and her tips for best practice.

The Training Depot Day Nursery in Luton wanted to develop a permanent playground in their school that would act as an extension of the classroom. Deputy Headteacher Miss McCowen tells us how their new equipment has made their children look forward to getting outside and learning.

Head teacher Gareth Letton describes how the new outdoor space at Underwood CE Primary School in Nottingham has allowed his pupils to develop physical skills and take risks in a safe and secure environment.

The children at Usworth Colliery Primary School have finally got the adventurous outdoor space they wanted. Headteacher Carole Colling tells us how their new playground is being used by all pupils from EYFS to Year 6, to develop their physical and social skills.

The large school grounds at Watlington Primary School have been given a new lease of life with exciting zones and equipment.

In need of a new way to encourage more free flow play, Welbourne Primary School chose a Poddely Set to do the job. They tell us how the new play equipment has changed the way they play.

All of the children at Welcombe Hills School are enjoying the benefits of their new and stimulating playground equipment from Playforce.

At Westbourne House Pre-Prep School, staff wanted to design an outdoor space that was perfect for pre-prep pupils. They tell us how new playground equipment has made outdoor play accessible to even the youngest children.

Play times are happier and healthier at Westbury Leigh Primary School thanks to new equipment installed in their outdoor space.

Amanda O'Flaherty, Nursery Teacher at Westdene Primary School tells us that the school had limited and old outdoor equipment and wanted the outdoor learning environment to have parity with the indoors

The staff at Westhill Primary School wanted to find a way to show their pupils that they can enjoy natural play even in busy London. They tell us how their new playground has changed attitudes towards rainy days.

Headteacher Jill Davis gives us a little insight into the process of re-designing their playground, involving the children in the design, and the benefits she has observed since the installation of the new equipment.

Wanting to make the playground an extension of the classroom, Whitehills Primary School were seeking an innovative way to take part in free flow play. Their new Poddely set has helped deliver flexible and creative play.

Old and tired equipment has been replaced with a brand new and exciting playground development at Willow Brook Primary School.

Dull, uninspiring school grounds are a thing of the past for staff and pupils at Willow Fields Community Primary.

The staff at Windmill Primary School wanted to give their pupils more opportunities to play and learn outside. They tell us how a new Poddely set has bridged the gap between the classroom and the playground and encouraged more free flow play.

A new Poddely set at Winterbourne Infant School is providing the staff and children with the flexibility they needed for free flow play. They tell us how the new way to play has benefited their daily routine.

Mrs Harper, Headteacher at Withymoor Primary School in Brierley Hill, West Midlands, tells us how a new playground has helped to promote better behaviour at playtime.

Knowing where to start with their empty, inefficient playground was a challenge for Woodlands Primary School but with the help of Playforce they have been able to transform it into a fun and inspiring space. They tell us how they have benefited from outdoor learning and educational play.

Wyndham Primary Academy in Derby had a problem. The school playground was bare and a tyre park was inaccessible for much of the year due to water underfoot. Its pupils had nothing to do outside at breaktimes and behaviour was becoming a problem.

As part of the Olympic Legacy, Yardley Hastings Primary School wanted to develop their playground into a fun space for active and healthy play. They tell us how their new equipment has improved exercise and attitudes.

Yarm Preparatory School wanted to find a way to make the great outdoors even more fun. They tell us how their new playground equipment means that their children can make lots of noise and get their hands dirty, as well as learning as they go along.

Creative and imaginative play is an important part of the school day at Yewtree Primary. The staff felt that more flexibility between the classroom and the playground would encourage pupils to play and learn wherever there is inspiration.

Ysgol y Wern wanted to find a way to introduce more free flow play to their daily routine. However, they were worried that they wouldn’t be able to because of their shortage in space. They tell us how a new Poddely Set has solved their storage problems and enabled them to take part in flexible and imaginative play.

Outdoor play was awkward and unexciting at Horton Grange Primary School. They wanted to convert their playground into a space that made playing outside fun and easy. They tell us how their new development means they can now take part in daily outdoor play without the hassle.

Landlord at The Crown Inn, Nicola, asked Playforce to help improve the appeal of their outdoor space to visiting families. We visited the pub, undertook a full site survey and designed a plan to include a Woodland Double Link Tower, complete with pirate flag! This was surrounded with safer grass tiles to ensure the pub’s youngest customers could enjoy the play area safely.

Brickhill Country Park is part of a consortium housing development located north of Brickhill, Bedford. The long-term project aimed to recreate a country park to welcome a new housing estate. Taylor Wimpey and Persimmon wanted to introduce sports facilities, play areas and 30+ hectares of parkland to the development.

 

An existing play area in Cottesmore, Rutland, was due for refurbishment as the surfacing and equipment had become outdated. One unit of existing play equipment was outdated and the area needed remodelling so it could become a more desirable place for the local children.

Castleward is a mixed residential and commercial regeneration development in Derby. The project is a joint venture between Lovell and Riverside Group, and acts on the Derby Cityscape Masterplan, a £2bn transformation of Derby’s city centre. Our colleagues at TCL were appointed in phase one of the development to landscape the new boulevard on the main through-fair in the city, connecting the new community with the centre of Derby. 

TCL teamed up with Barratt Homes and Plymouth Community Homes to design, supply and install three exciting new play areas at Cookworthy, part of a £129m regeneration development of over 1000 homes and a new public open space on Cookworthy Green, Plymouth. The green, on the doorstep of the new homes, aimed to include gravel paths, wildflower meadows, open grass areas and new play areas.

Great Denham Park is a consortium housing development with David Wilson Homes (DWH), the lead developer, building over 2,800 homes during a 12 year period. Following an extensive landscape consultancy project working alongside DWH and their retained architects (Golby and Luck), our colleagues at TCL were appointed to deliver a multi-faceted £2.5m project creating play areas, sports facilities and a 150-acre country park including wetland areas.

Hanham Hall is a 186 home development on the grounds of a former hospital in Bristol. The nine-hectare site is the UK’s first zero-carbon community, using low and zero carbon technologies such as solar panels and energy-efficient appliances.  The houses are surrounded by allotments, orchards, hedges, ponds and cycle and walking routes, and the development needed natural play areas to complete the community. We were asked to design, supply and install four play spaces that met the ecological values of the neighbourhood.

As part of a complete refurbishment of their Early Years Department, Akeley Wood Junior School in Milton Keynes wanted to redevelop their playground. They wanted to create an outdoor space that would encourage free flow play that linked with their EY Curriculum throughout the school year - whatever the weather. They tell us how they are benefitting from their new outstanding outdoor space.

At Albury C of E Primary School, the playground was in desperate need of a revamp. Their old outdoor space was not suitable for the children at the school and outdoor play was messy and time consuming. They wanted to develop a space that would make moving outdoors easy and fun. They tell us how their new playground has changed outdoor play and learning for the children whatever the weather.

In Sevenoaks, Weald Community Primary School have undergone a huge school transformation. Part of this was redeveloping their old, outdated playground. They tell us how their new outdoor space has given their Early Years children the opportunity to enjoy the playground during lessons and play time.

Youngsters from a London school joined members of the Playforce team for a shrub and bulb planting day in a rejuvenated park to help them feel part of their physical environment.

The extra fun and games inspired by a new timber trail and Woodland Tower at Stamfordham First School in Newcastle Upon Tyne has had a positive impact on the whole of school life.

When the PTA at St Nicholas' CE Primary School contacted Playforce, they were looking for someone to help them develop their playground with equipment that encouraged their pupils to play outdoors at every opportunity. PTA member, Julie Vipond, tells us about their experience.

Helen Wilson, from Holme Slack Community Primary School, tell us about their latest playground design process, and how their pupils are now enjoying the benefits of an engaging play environment for break times, as well as to reward attendance and focus on small intervention focus groups.

With parts of the existing play area not used by the children for health and safety concerns, Ripponden J&I School decided that it was time for a new play area. Desperate for a space that the children could enjoy, head teacher Lorraine Bamforth, spoke to Playforce.

Friars Primary Foundation School, in Southwark, wanted to transform their concrete outdoor space into something that would engage children in outdoor learning, active play and having lots and lots of fun.

This exciting new playground, worth £150,000, was designed and constructed by Playforce, and was made possible by boutique development company, Hambridge Homes, who purchased the caretakers house, providing additional funding for the school to undergo improvements. The caretakers house is set to be demolished to make way for eight stylish apartments and new school facilities.

 

Presented with the budget, and space to do something really special, Friars Primary Foundation School approached Playforce to work with them, and the children, to design a flexible and engaging outdoor space.

Micklem Primary School wanted a playground that could provide more choice for their pupils to play on each week. Liz Ormonde, Micklem’s headteacher, tells us that by listening to the children’s ideas, Playforce created the playground to be exactly how the children wanted it.

Eager to reduce disruption and maximise impact, Radcliffe Hall Primary School took advantage of Playforce’s finance option, and the results are spectacular. We asked their Playforce consultant, Lizzy Sayers about working with the school to develop their dream play area.

Wanting to increase family visits to the holiday park, boost revenue and increase Trip Advisor reviews, a leisure facility approached Playforce to create a play area which achieved their aims.

 

Shenington C of E Primary School were in need of a playground redevelopment to create an exciting and engaging area their pupils could be proud of.

Capel St Mary CEVC Primary School had a play area which was in desperate need of attention. With the addition of new surfacing making mud a thing of the past, and target panels to stimulate the children during play time and help them to develop fundamental movement skills, Playforce had the perfect solution.

With ageing equipment creating an unsafe play area, Christ the King Catholic Primary School needed a solution that would offer opportunities to focus early years learning outdoors.

Lambeth Council were eager to create a safe play area for the residents of the local flats in Nelson Row. With a small space and budget, Playforce used equipment from Vinci (exclusively available in the UK via Playforce) due to their durable steel structure and guarantee.

Woolston CE Primary School’s KS1 and KS2 play area was in need of redevelopment. The current grassed space contained only a small shelter, and with 90 children of different ages needing to access and use the space throughout the day, the school asked Playforce for some help.

After successfully receiving a National Lottery grant, Iron Acton Primary School worked with Playforce to develop an exciting new play area.

With part of the play area developed in 2016, Alison McDonough tells us how their now completed outdoor area is being used to deliver outdoor learning and educational play.

Purn Holiday Park on the South West coast was looking to update their play area as part of a massive refurbishment. They came to us because they were looking for play equipment that would have that wow factor – and they needed something suitable for children under 5 all the way up to 15.

Unable to use their old climbing frame due to Health and Safety concerns, King’s Lodge Primary School wanted a play area which was fun and physically challenging.

Space at Annfield Plain Infant School wasn’t the issue in this playground, it was the angle. Annfield Plain’s outdoor space is built on a slope and whenever the British weather made an appearance it would become muddy and unusable.

The Outside Chance pub, is an English pub in the picturesque village of Manton, near Marlborough, Wiltshire.  Popular with locals as well as visitors to the village, the outside area of the pub was in need of a refurbishment. In particular the pub chain wanted to make this pub even more child-friendly.  They were keen to have an outside space, a short walk from the Primary School, where parents could ‘pop in’ on their way home.  In particular they wanted to make sure the space was suitable for younger children, aged between two and five.

The Who’d A Thought It pub, in Lockeridge near Marlborough in Wiltshire, is part of a national pub chain.  With a new business partner on board to run it the decision was taken that this popular pub was in need of a major refresh both inside and out. 

 

Headteacher Mr Chambers from Coppull Primary School in Lancashire tells us about their recent Playforce installation.

Southampton Common Nature Play Area and Water Park has received a £500,000 redevelopment, to the delight of the local community.

 

With the existing water play area decommissioned, a Surrey based landscape architect Davies White designed a new area. Playforce successfully tendered for the landscaping, supplying and installation works of this unique project, and produced a value engineered piece which saved Southampton City Council £200,000. This was achieved by specifying alternative equipment which was more suited to the environment.

Mrs C Greenway, Head Teacher at Chorley St James' Church of England Primary School tells us about their Early Year’s Project.

 

''The school had an internal area which needed developing and a decision was made to develop it as an early year’s area. Lizzy from Playforce came down to site to gather measurements and give ideas. I found it useful to be open to suggestions and be flexible and listen to Playforce as they clearly have a wealth of design knowledge and know what works etc.
 
I also found it really helpful to gather the views of the early years team prior to this meeting to avoid resistance and to be able to share ideas. The reception teacher was at this initial meeting which was very useful as she had a clear vision and understanding of the play opportunities it could facilitate.''
 

GEMS Didcot Primary Academy wanted to help their children learn to be resilient and creative, and to learn that challenge is a vital part of the learning process. We asked headteacher Alison Ashcroft how their new outdoor space has helped to transform the school and its students. 

 

June Barners, Head of Nursery at Radcliffe On Trent Pre-School in Nottinghamshire tells us about their recent outdoor project.

 

 

Reach Primary Learning Centre in Leeds specialises in teaching children with SEMH needs. Headteacher Ali Elvidge is passionate about different types of learning and was keen to add in an active aspect to her students’ education. She tells us why she’s so pleased with the outdoor space and what effect it has had on the children there.

St Agnes Primary School wanted to find a way to build outdoor play into their students’ learning, as well as using it as an effective outlet for their energy. They tell us what’s been going on since the installation and how it’s improved things for the children.

R. Kennedy, Learning Mentor at Woodhouse Primary Academy tells us about their outdoor project.

 

''We developed our KS1 playground because it was a very dull space with very little for the children to do at playtimes. Our Early Years playground is very interactive for the children and there is lots for them to do. The transition from Early Years to Year 1 is often quite a step for such young children and the playground that they were faced with wasn’t very exciting. This resulted in minor behavioral issues due to boredom.

 

We have noticed a vast difference in the behavior of the children since the installation and also in their attitudes towards learning.''

Chloe the Assistant Nursery Manager at Asquith tells us about their Playforce outdoor project. ''We are part of a large organisation who use Playforce for all garden refurbishments. We needed a refresh in our outdoor space as it was looking very old. So we contacted Playforce to see what we could do.''

The outdoor EYFS area at Glenbrook Primary School in Nottingham was a bland tarmac space with a few line markings. They wanted a new area to cover all areas of learning, focusing on communication skills and  physical activity. Head teacher Kirsty Ryan tells us more.

The brief at Trinity Richmond was to redevelop a tired, unused and unloved area of the school. It was completely overgrown, unsafe and inaccessible for the children.

 

Bedenham Primary School, in Gosport, wanted to be able to take learning and play outdoors. They contacted Playforce with a request for an outdoor classroom. Head of School, Mrs Caroline Wood, talked to us about their latest project.

 

After the initial consultation, the design brief at Kings Hill Primary School was to redevelop an outdated and under used reception playground.

 

 

When Freya and the family contacted Playforce to tell us about their garden and about their daughter Harmonie-Rose we were already familiar with the name and their story as Harmonie-Rose had featured in various local news programs and local press.

 

Harmonie-Rose was struck down with Meningococcal B (Men-B) at 10 months old and given a less than 10% chance of survival. When Harmonie was first poorly, her friends and family were told that she would never walk, talk, laugh, have emotions, see, read, communicate - that she would be a brain-damaged quadruple amputee with no quality of life. These predictions couldn’t be further from the truth and now at the age of 4 years Harmonie is a bright, chatty and active quadruple amputee.

You don’t have to totally overhaul your outdoor space to make a big impact. At Burnham Copse Primary School we helped to turn limited outdoor space into a practical space suitable for all ages and a wide range of activities. Consultant Tom, explains more. 

St Andrews & St Marks CE Junior School in Surbiton, near Kingston-upon-Thames, won a Gold Healthy Schools Award last year and was further recognised for their work towards all children having a healthy mind and body with the Active Kingston Healthy School of the Year award in 2019. We talked to Playforce consultant Tom,  about their recent playground redevelopment and how this contributed.

With a new headteacher Brentfield Primary School was keen to overhaul their outdoor space. We talked to Playforce consultant Tom to find out what they aimed to achieve with this development project, and why Playforce was the team for them.

New Moston Primary School, in Manchester, was keen to develop a sports space that could be used by all ages as well as the general public. We talked to Playforce consultant Lizzy about the school’s commitment to helping their local community stay active.

St Roberts First School is a small school in central Morpeth with very limited space, the space the school does have is often shared with the church and usually turns into a car park at the weekend, because of this there was very little equipment in the playground – none of which offered any sort of physical challenge. For this reason St Roberts approached Playforce to discuss utilising their space in the best possible way, whilst still ensuring the playground was a usable space for everyone and physical play was developed.

Why did you want to develop your playground?

The outside area had been neglected over the years and as well as being unsafe was also uninspiring with little to promote children’s development. The area consisted of a barked area that was showing the ripped groundsheet and a waterlogged grass area. The play equipment was old and falling apart.

Many children come into our foundation stage without many outdoor experiences and we wanted an area that fostered independence and would inspire the imagination.

The requirement at Caldecote Primary School was to redevelop an existing grass area, which through high usage during the summer months and wet conditions during the winter (often flooding in places) had typically become worn, muddy and unsafe for the children.

 

The redevelopment needed to include a physical activity trail to challenge the children’s agility and balance.

Playforce Outdoor Grounds Consultant James Chalk tells us about the recent outdoor developments at Carrant Brook Junior School.

Following a redevelopment of an uninspiring outdoor space at this Hove primary school, School Business Manager Liz Moore tells us how the revamped space has helped children become more engaged in activities at playtime, with a positive effect on behaviour.

Louise Higgins, Senior Nursery Manager answers a few questions about their new outdoor space.

Why did you want to develop your nursery garden?
Our old play area was in a poor state as it was old, also the surface was becoming a concern. 

Kimpton Primary School wanted to revamp their EYFS outdoor space to create a flexible environment for the children to enjoy all year round. Nicki Browne, Senior Admin Officer, told us about their experience and the impact the development is having on their school.

Bevington Primary School, W10, had a “bleak and bland” area that needed a major rethink, if the children were to be encouraged to play more freely, giving them challenges to improve their physical abilities. Outdoor Grounds Consultant Tom Dean tells us more.

Abercromby Nursery School in Liverpool had a previous playground installation that had unfortunately been condemned due to rot. They recognised the value of outdoor play and learning for the children - particularly those from an urban environment - and wanted to find something to fill the space that would extend their play provision to all ages.

Downsway Primary School in Reading was looking for a way to use their large outdoor area more effectively for active play. Consultant Ben Shears worked with Headteacher Mrs Ayres to develop a scheme that would allow them to take PE lessons outdoors, as well as offering more fun for playtimes.

Parley First School in Dorset required a new play area for physical activity. Working with their local Outdoor Grounds Consultant an Active Trail Low Level 15, Woodland Climber - Large and several other pieces were installed. Mr John Bagwell, Headteacher at Parley First Schools tells us more.

Whatcombe Farm Nursery in Somerset needed to make an outside area more accessible for everyone and an enjoyable place to play. Lucy Whitehead from Whatcombe Farm Nursery tells us more about their project.

Damian Le Gresley from Winterbourne Bassett Community Pub in Wiltshire tells us about their playground installation.