In September 2019, following an annual inspection Phil Cunningham, Grounds Keeper at Danes Hill Preparatory School approached us to request a quotation for repair works to their existing equipment. However, in October 2019, it was decided to replace the old and worn piece of equipment with something new, imaginative and exciting for the children in this EYFS Setting. The area is within the Pre-Preparatory area of the school, so the children are aged 3 and 4 years old. Keeping this in mind, we began creating bespoke timber play equipment that would later become known as “The Good Ship Bevendean”. With a budget of £20k and the idea of a timber pirate ship we wanted to incorporate physical play with encouraging imaginative play. It is proven that young children learn best whilst at play so it seemed like the perfect opportunity to combine the two.
This particular Ship offers crawling, climbing and sliding, perfect for physical development. Spaces are provided for children to role play, socialise and interact with each other allowing for development of other areas of learning and development in the EYFS such as personal, social and emotional but also communication and language.
The installation was completed during the school’s Christmas break, luckily the weather was on our side! It meant the surfacing could be installed without issue and we think you will agree that the shark infested waters really bring this timber pirate ship to life! The children returned to school in January and were thrilled. It has been a much used and well loved piece of equipment.
Adding simple accessories to a piece of play equipment can quickly enhance the play value. The portholes and flag pole used here emphasise the fact that this is a Ship, helping young imaginations create their own interpretations. Ropes, rock holds and domed windows are available in multiple colours.
