Woodlands School, Plymouth, approached us in need of making one of their outdoor play areas safer for pupils. The school educates 75 pupils aged between 2-19 with physical and sensory difficulties. The surface in need of attention, as it stood, was a little too hard. Woodland’s were after something softer, and therefore safer for their pupils. Plus, they were keen to get a little colour injected into the play area to make it more of a sensory experience. We were happy to help, and got to work designing a colourful safe play area that was bound to stimulate pupils while keeping them safe.

Before:

What is a sensory garden / safe play area?

A sensory garden is a play area that incorporates various features to make it a sensory experience for its users. They usually involve colourful elements, but the imagination is the only limit when it comes to other features, which can include anything from wind chimes to rock walls. A safe play area is a play area that prioritises safety elements, such as this one for Woodlands School. We used STM EPIC (Education & Play In Colour) turf for the surface, which is soft enough to take impact without causing injury. Plus it’s really bright and colourful!

Sensory shapes

We designed a sensory surface with colourful shapes cut into it to promote the stimulation and education of the pupils at Woodlands. We were thrilled with the finished result!

After:

Could your school benefit from a sensory safe play area?

Sensory safe play areas are great for SEND (Special Educational Needs and Difficulties) schools. They offer an interactive environment that is much safer than the usual harder playground surfacing available. Plus, they’re great fun and encourage learning on a number of different levels. If this sounds like something that interests you...

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