All Hallows School, Shepton Mallet, Somerset

A fresh new look for the Nursery and Reception playgrounds at All Hallows School. A perfect example of how to maximise on limited space.

All Hallows School is a non-selective co-educational prep school that provides day and boarding facilities. The school is located a mile east of Cranmore village, near the town of Frome, Somerset, in the West of England.

Nursery Playground

A small area that was surrounded with a mid-height fence. They wanted to replace the canopy that was located outside of the door as it had a gap which caused leaks during wet weather. Our lean to polycarbonate roof canopy provides a sheltered space that allows light in and has resolved the leak issue.

The staff and children loved the existing wooden hut but felt a slightly bigger one would be better for the children. Our forest playhut with mark making was a perfect alternative and allows for imaginative play. We also added chalkboards to the walls for mark making activities. Resin bound gravel and artificial grass surfacing has replaced the dull tarmac creating a brighter, natural feel. Finally, our 12 piece block set provides open ended play. These can be used as seating or a trim trail or role play activities.

Reception

A larger area which was paved and had rubber tiles under an old worn playtower. Making the best use of the space was essential with the remodel.

The rubber matting had to be replaced as this was causing trip hazard concerns. We replaced these with black wetpour, adding a roadway with parking bays and a mini climbing wall by utilising the existing brick wall.

The canopy in this area was quite small and the staff wanted to extend this to cover entire width of the entrance. The school loved our open-ended block set and decided to have this in the reception playground too. Additionally, our mountain climb and mine tunnel provides extra play value.

Artificial grass and resin bound gravel surfacing has been added to the rest of the area to brighten up the space and create a natural feel. Mark making boards, our magnetic water wall and square stage sandpit complete the area.

The staff and children are delighted with the new play spaces.