In early 2019 we were approached by Tim O’Brien, Headteacher at Wootey Junior School with an interest to redevelop an outdoor play space for children to enjoy at break times whilst also providing a suitable all weather space for outdoor learning. The budget was £35,000 to create an active area, outdoor classroom, fenced nature area and a pathway to allow the children to safely gain access. We got to work straight away creating design options for the 30m by 12m area which had been home to temporary classrooms whilst the school building was upgraded in 2017/2018. In June 2019 we were delighted to learn we had been awarded the contract. A few design changes were required as some very heavy rain highlighted some drainage issues so we incorporated a large soakaway and French drainage system. Tim requested that the works be carried out whilst the children were on school holidays, so in August 2019 construction started at Wootey Junior School. The whole project took three weeks as our team worked really hard to ensure our high quality finish was achieved.
“Our children use the climbing frame during every recreational period and the Gazebo is used weekly by classes as a base for lessons from across the curriculum. It has allowed our school to follow the local authority Trailblazer curriculum to teach our children the importance of the environment and conservation. The children love this facility. It has enriched their play and learning. They now see this area as one of the best places to be in our school” – Tim O’Brien
