Northbourne C of E Primary, Didcot, Oxfordshire

Sector: EYFS & SEND

Case Study: Creating Safe, Accessible Outdoor Learning Spaces at Northbourne C of E Primary School, Didcot

The Brief

Transforming Two Challenging Outdoor Areas for EYFS and Additional Resource Provision

Northbourne C of E Primary School in Didcot, Oxfordshire approached ESP to help resolve long-standing surfacing issues affecting two key outdoor learning environments: the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) play area and the school’s Additional Resource Provision (ARP).

The school wanted to create safe, accessible and engaging outdoor spaces that could be used throughout the year while supporting the differing needs of both Early Years pupils and children within the ARP.

The Challenge

Both areas suffered from ageing surfacing and site-specific challenges that limited their usability.

EYFS Outdoor Area

The existing artificial grass had originally been laid directly onto soil rather than a properly constructed MOT Type 1 sub-base. Over time, this had resulted in significant undulations across the surface, creating trip hazards and increasing the likelihood of children falling during play.

Mature trees within the area had also caused roots to protrude through the surface, further affecting safety and appearance.

In addition, the space contained a fenced, countersunk sandpit that restricted movement around the playground. The school wanted to remove this feature and replace it with a more flexible outdoor learning space that could support teaching throughout the year.

Additional Resource Provision

The ARP outdoor space faced similar issues with tree roots, but its greatest challenge was accessibility.

The majority of the area had become worn earth where grass had previously existed, leaving it muddy and unusable during wet weather. For pupils with additional needs, reliable year-round access to outdoor learning is essential, making an all-weather solution a priority.

Our Solution

Rather than simply replacing worn surfaces, we redesigned both areas to improve safety, accessibility and the overall learning experience.

Opening Up the EYFS Environment

The first step was to remove unnecessary fencing surrounding the existing sandpit, creating a more open, inclusive layout that encouraged free-flow movement between activities.

To eliminate the uneven surface, we reconstructed the entire area using a professionally installed MOT Type 1 sub-base, providing a stable and level foundation before installing high-quality artificial grass.

Around each mature tree, exposed roots were carefully protected using rubber mulch, with crisp block paving edging providing both a professional finish and a durable transition between materials.

The redundant sandpit was replaced with a dedicated octagonal shelter, creating a versatile teaching space that allows practitioners to extend learning beyond the classroom in all weather conditions.

Creating an Accessible ARP Space

For the Additional Resource Provision, we installed a durable artificial grass surface to create an all-weather outdoor environment that could be accessed throughout the year.

As in the EYFS area, a mature tree were sensitively integrated into the design using rubber mulch surrounds, protecting root systems while maintaining a safe and attractive finish.

The combination of contrasting surfacing materials; including artificial grass, rubber mulch and block paving; not only enhanced the visual appearance of the area but also introduced valuable sensory experiences for pupils.

For children who benefit from exploring different textures, including those who prefer to access outdoor spaces barefoot due to sensory processing needs, the varied surfaces provide additional opportunities for sensory engagement in a safe and controlled environment.

The Outcome

The completed project has transformed two previously problematic outdoor spaces into safe, attractive and inclusive learning environments.

In the EYFS area, the new level surfacing has removed trip hazards, improved drainage and created a flexible space that better supports continuous provision and outdoor learning. The addition of the outdoor shelter gives staff a dedicated teaching area while opening up the playground creates a more natural flow between activities.

Within the ARP, the introduction of an all-weather surface means pupils can now enjoy consistent access to outdoor play and learning regardless of the season. The carefully selected surfacing materials also provide valuable sensory opportunities, supporting children with a wide range of individual needs.

By combining practical engineering solutions with thoughtful, child-centred design, ESP delivered two outdoor environments that are safer, more accessible and better equipped to support learning, development and wellbeing for every child.