Woden Primary School, Wolverhampton, West Midlands

Project Snapshot

School: Woden Primary School
Location: Wolverhampton, West Midlands
Client / Trust: Central Learning Partnership Trust
Project Value: £100,000
Completion: July 2025

The Brief
Woden Primary School’s EYFS Reception courtyard was tired and no longer reflected the quality of indoor learning provision. The space was fragmented into multiple fenced-off areas, with a patchwork of surfacing materials installed at different times and showing varying levels of wear. Situated within the centre of the school building, the courtyard also presented logistical challenges, including restricted access and the need for significant spoil removal. The project required a complete overhaul to create a cohesive, high-quality outdoor learning environment aligned with the school’s EYFS vision.

Our Solution
The solution involved a full strip-out of the existing surfacing and failing sub-bases, addressing historic issues where new surfaces had been laid over uneven paving rather than properly removed. At the school’s request, the existing playtower was carefully retained and reinstated with new impact-absorbent safety surfacing.

A strong emphasis was placed on creating a natural aesthetic, recognising that many pupils live in city locations with limited access to green spaces. Durable, easy-to-clean surfaces were installed in messy play zones and directly outside classrooms, while alternative sensory textures and experiences were introduced elsewhere to enrich play and learning.

The existing bike and trike track, which previously formed a simple and uninspiring loop, was reimagined as a more expansive sensory roadway, significantly increasing play value and encouraging imaginative and physical activity.

What We Delivered

• On-site consultation with experienced consultants who understand EYFS, providing informed and practical advice on current surfacing.
• Innovative and unique 3D design created by a dedicated EYFS playground designer.
• Pre-start meeting and a detailed programme of works developed to manage the challenging site location.
• Made-to-order equipment manufactured in the UK using laminated play-grade timber.
• Dedicated contract management, with installation completed by experienced, enhanced DBS-certified playground engineers.
• Free independent post-installation inspection to verify the safety and compliance of the project.

The Outcome

• Comprehensive new sub-basing topped with high-quality artificial grass, complemented by pockets of block paving, resin-bound rubber mulch, and resin-bound gravel, creating a practical, low-maintenance, yet natural-looking environment that meets EN1177 safety standards.
• Wildwood coppice tree trail and large forest hut, offering immersive natural play gross motor and imaginative play opportunities.
• Sensory roadway providing high-quality physical development and additional sensory experiences, while complementing the natural theme of the courtyard.
• Open-ended mud kitchen and moveable block set, enabling flexible learning and play opportunities in line with Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) goals.

“The staff are delighted with the area – it’s an incredible upgrade to the learning environment and the children’s learning! We look forward to potentially working on additional projects with ESP in the future.”