Case Study - Amotherby Primary School

The reception area at this school was already fenced and gated and so we had to work within a set space...

The area suffered badly with pooling water and also had a sloped grass area. The school required a covered area so that the children could spend time outdoors whatever the weather and an all weather surface beyond this. The old slabs were removed and the drainage issues rectified, attractive Indian paving was used to replace these. It was felt the natural feel of grass would enhance the area, however to make sure it was fully accessible all year round synthetic grass was used.

A lean to shelter with a UV protected polycarbonate roof (to allow light through it) was added alongside the building, beneath which a decked base was added. A lockable cupboard was added at one end of the shelter to house waterproof jackets, wellies, etc.

Planter seating was added for both gardening and to provide somewhere to tell stories or just relax and chat with friends. In addition a large digging planter with low retention wall was added for children to climb into. Along side this two log piles were added for attracting mini-beasts.

As space was limited, the addition of a normal sized stage or play house for role play was not an option and so Playscheme designed a bespoke role play area. In one corner two gates, each with an opening/shop counter were arranged so that when closed they could be used for role play, puppet shows or as a den area. When the gates were locked back they revealed a small raised platform with chalkboard backdrops which could be used as a stage area.

Provision for water play (with a Playscheme water system) and mark making was also added.

Comments from Mr B Audsley, Headteacher

“The Early Years’ Project was two years in its planning and during this period several meetings and discussions were held with Playscheme. Every time the design altered or new features added, Playscheme and their design team provided creative solutions and re-drew plans. They have a very impressive portfolio of past projects and an uncanny ability to interpret a design brief into an economical, realistic and creative outcome. Experience gathered over many years, working in dozens of different schools, means they are rarely fazed by anything!

The construction of the outdoor play area was the fifth or sixth time the school has used Playscheme for a significant outdoor project. On each occasion work has been undertaken within budget and completed on time and to a very high standard.

All Playscheme personnel are very obliging, take a pride in their work and are sensitive to the fact that working in a school that may be in session, requires exemplary conduct and particular attention paid to health and safety issues.

One of the most impressive qualities about the company is that they genuinely want to please their customers and foster what they hope will be a long-term working partnership. To serve this laudable aim, their after-sales service is second to none. They rapidly attend to any problems that may arise or even, if the customer has erred, reconstruct an area that doesn’t work!

Playscheme is a small family business that specialises in outdoor projects for schools. Everyone associated with the company has integrity and honesty and they can be relied upon to do a first-class job that is nearly always more competitively priced, better constructed and creative in its design than its rivals.„