Our team was commissioned by an SEN school in Hampshire to upgrade an outdoor play area that contained outdated equipment and lacked engaging features. The objective was to create a safe, stimulating, and fully accessible environment that would support sensory development, physical activity, and imaginative play. The project involved the removal of old equipment, the installation of new bespoke sensory and adventure features, and full resurfacing with high-quality, themed safety surfacing. Swipe for more The upgraded play area incorporated a variety of bespoke and interactive elements designed to engage children of all abilities. Key aspects of the works included Removal of outdated equipment:
All old play equipment was carefully removed to make way for new, safe, and engaging features Bespoke sensory shelters and tunnels:
Custom sensory shelters and tunnels were installed, providing spaces for quiet reflection, imaginative play, and sensory exploration Play panels and adventure trails:
A variety of interactive play panels and adventure trails were installed to encourage problem-solving, coordination, and social interaction Traverse walls and mound feature:
Traverse walls were added to challenge balance and climbing skills. A buried mound was created with a double-width slide and a crawl-through tunnel, offering additional physical and imaginative play opportunities Full-area EPDM wet pour surfacing:
The entire area was resurfaced with EPDM wet pour, including bespoke graphics designed to match the theme of the adjacent classroom. This created a visually engaging, level, and safe environment suitable for all users Several challenges were carefully managed to ensure the project was successful Integration of multiple bespoke features:
The combination of shelters, tunnels, panels, traverse walls, and the mound required careful planning and coordination to ensure safe access, proper fall zones, and intuitive play flow Themed EPDM surfacing:
Bespoke graphics had to be accurately integrated into the wet pour surfacing to align with the adjacent classroom theme. Close collaboration between the design and installation teams ensured precise implementation Maintaining safety and accessibility:
All elements were installed to meet SEN accessibility and safety requirements, allowing children of all abilities to use the space confidently and independently The completed project transformed the outdoor area into a vibrant, safe, and highly engaging environment. The combination of bespoke sensory shelters, adventure features, and themed EPDM surfacing has created a stimulating space that encourages physical activity, sensory exploration, and imaginative play. The school was extremely pleased with the outcome, particularly the integration of the bespoke graphics with the adjacent classroom theme and the overall increase in play value. The upgraded area now provides a long-lasting, inclusive, and inspiring outdoor environment for pupils. Outdoor Play and Sensory Area Upgrade at SEN School in Hampshire
The Brief
Key features
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