Advice & Information

Playground and Outdoor Classroom Planning Guide

Even if you are only making small changes to a playground or perhaps you are considering a complete redevelopment of the whole school grounds, this simple guide should help.

Below is a basic diagram of a school playground, around this diagram are some considerations which you may need to think about when designing your area. It is best to consider these before you contact us, so that you are able to provide us with a clear 'brief' of your requirements.

Other points to consider:

• What size is the available area?
• What age range will be using this area; 0-3 years, 3-6 years, 6-12 years or 12+ years?
• Will the area be utilised by more than one age group?
• Are children with special needs also be using the play area?
• What types of play would you like to include? (e.g. freeplay, activities, imaginative, sensory, etc.)
• Is there any existing equipment to be retained or removed?
• Is your budget for the playground already in place?
• If you currently have no funding do you know how you will fund the project?

Create a wish list from our website of all the items you are interested in, write the list out in order of priority. At this stage you might like to involve the children who will eventually be using the playground, get their opinions on how they like to play and what they would like to have in the playground.

When choosing your play equipment remember that some items will require safety surfacing which, in some cases, can increase the overall cost considerably. Also, if you are considering some form of outdoor classroom or shelter, be aware that some structures may require planning permission.

If you need any further help and advise regarding playground equipment don't hesitate to contact us, we are more than happy to help.

Note:
Call our design team on 01208 816620 to discuss your ideas and clear up any questions you may have.

One of our Playground Consultants will visit you to discuss larger or more complex proposals.