A Brand New Playground Built from the Ground Up

The Loyne Specialist School approached us with an exciting opportunity, to transform an otherwise unused area of their grounds into an inclusive and engaging play space tailored to the needs of their students.

One of the key additions to the new play area at The Loyne Specialist School was the installation of a 10ft dug-in trampoline. Set into the ground at one end of the space, this feature was chosen for its accessibility and gross motor skill benefits, making it particularly suitable for all children. By being level with the surrounding surface, the trampoline eliminates the need for steps or platforms, allowing all pupils to use it safely and confidently. Its durable, specialist design ensures it can withstand regular use while providing a fun and stimulating way to support balance, coordination, and gross motor development.

Another important element of the playground design was the installation of a Double Bay Swing, carefully selected to offer a mix of inclusive and social play opportunities. One side features an Inclusive Harness Swing, providing essential postural support and a secure, comfortable seat for children who need additional assistance, ensuring that every child has the chance to enjoy the simple joy of swinging. Alongside it, we installed a Group Swing, designed to encourage shared play, teamwork, and social interaction among pupils. Together, these two swing types create a flexible and welcoming space where children of all abilities can swing side by side, fostering inclusion and friendship through movement and fun.

To add a more physically challenging and engaging element to the playground, we supplied and installed a bespoke Single Deck Tower Unit. Featuring a 1.5m deck height, chosen by the school to provide a greater sense of adventure, the unit includes a stainless steel slide, access steps, a climb wall, and a curved ladder, offering a variety of routes to suit different abilities and confidence levels. The tower is built with steel feet to raise the timber frame out of the ground, a detail that significantly extends the structure’s lifespan by protecting it from moisture and decay. This custom-built feature not only supports physical development and coordination but also encourages independence and problem-solving through play.

The team next installed a Brown Eco Mulch Crawl Through Tunnel Mound, complete with PlayGrade Sleeper Wings. The tunnel mound introduces a unique, tactile experience, encouraging children to crawl, climb, and explore in a safe, earth-toned environment that blends seamlessly with the rest of the playground. The PlayGrade Sleeper Wings were strategically positioned to reinforce the surrounding mulch and soil, creating a secure edging that retains the mound’s shape and stability over time.

We then began to carry out comprehensive groundworks across the entire 260m² site to ensure long-term durability and safety. This involved excavating and preparing the sub-base, followed by the importation and compaction of MOT Type 1 Stone to a minimum depth of 100mm throughout the area. This solid foundation is crucial in providing stability for both the play equipment and the surfacing layers to come. We then supplied and installed flexible aluminium edgings around all designated surface zones, forming precise boundaries and smooth transitions between different finishes. With the groundwork in place, we laid 157m² of Brown Bonded Eco Mulch Surfacing at the specified depths, chosen for its natural appearance, impact-absorbing properties, and low-maintenance qualities. To complement this, we supplied and fitted Unique Play Grass (with a 32mm pile height) to all remaining areas outside the mulch zones, providing a soft, visually appealing surface that enhances the overall aesthetic.

Adding a final layer of functionality and comfort to the new space, we installed a Timber Shelter measuring 4.2m by 2.44m, more than just a practical structure, it creates a change of pace within the playground. With built-in timber seating and side panels, the shelter offers a cosy, defined space where pupils can take a break from more active play, enjoy some quiet time, or gather for outdoor lessons. Its natural timber design complements the surrounding features without dominating the space, while the open front keeps it accessible and inviting. Whether used for calm reflection or social interaction, the shelter adds a new dimension to how the area can be enjoyed throughout the day.

The project at The Loyne Specialist School was shaped by a shared commitment to creating something both inclusive and lasting. With clear goals and open communication, the school made it easy to understand what would truly benefit their students. The finished space reflects that collaborative effort—a well-rounded, engaging environment that supports a wide range of play experiences in a setting designed for everyone to enjoy.