Heybrook Primary and Nursery School, Rochdale

The main issue the school had was that they shared their early years outdoor space with a Sure Start Children’s Centre, in order to access the area they had to cross a public footpath. For this reason the school, assisted by the local council, decided to relocate the area so that it was within the school grounds. The local authority carried out the required removal works and installed new fencing in the KS1 playground to create the new EYFS space. The area surrounding the school is built up with scarce access to parks and so it was important to the school to create a really natural looking green space. It was also imperative that the design included a covered space so that they could play and learn outside during all weathers.

The Project
The project started like any other, the sales consultant met with the Headteacher and Early Years Lead to discuss the schools requirements. Following the first meeting, a second meeting was held to discuss the initial design proposal and some minor changes were made. Once the design was finalised and the order was placed, the installation was scheduled. ESP Play install playgrounds throughout the whole year, the school knew that the area would be cordoned off and that the work would be carried out safely so they were happy for the installation to take place during term time. The fixed equipment was installed first, then the sensory pathway was laid, the surfacing was completed and the free standing equipment was added at the very end of the project. The wonderful development includes a natural water feature, bespoke sand pit, deluxe mud kitchen, large free standing canopy, forest play hut, a sensory pathway, the Hive and crooked benches from our Wild Wood range, planters, habitats, storage and more. Quite unbelievably, the installation team completed the whole project in just 4 days!

The Outcome
The space has been completely transformed, the new area encompasses all of the schools requirements and most importantly they now have a space that is much more easily accessed allowing free flow play. The combination of wooden equipment and artificial grass surfacing has provided the desired natural look and we have successfully created the beautiful green garden that the school had dreamt of. Every child that uses the space will experience all aspects of the learning and development outcomes expected by the EYFS statutory framework.

Following the completion of the project, the school said “Thanks once again Caroline. Really pleased with how it’s turned out and how efficient Miles and his team were”. The school think the new area looks fantastic and were so happy with the work and service that they would use ESP Play again and recommend us…another happy customer.

ESP Play are industry specialists in nursery and EYFS outdoor playground equipment. Your school can also benefit from a well-developed and comprehensive range of products specifically designed for early years outdoor play. Please get in touch with us today and begin the transformation or your space with a free consultation and design.