Ridgeway Farm CE Academy, Swindon
Ridgeway Farm CE Academy is a new school in Swindon near the Shaw Ridge retail park. It has only been open since 2016. The school initially asked for artificial grass in parts of the playground to break up the dominance of the tarmac. They also wanted to include spaces for storytelling, a teaching area, climbing apparatus, a sand pit and water play.
Our design solution included a Trim Trail and Jungle Climber that would engage upper body strength and core stability, whilst providing an exciting physical challenge. We also placed a large Storytelling Chair, White Board and Chalk Board to develop literacy skills and encourage listening and attention whilst on a soft and comfortable surface; and added Play Huts to encourage communication, language and personal, social and emotional development.
For the learning space, we felt our Octagonal Outdoor Classroom would work perfectly on Ridgeway’s field, creating an impressive focal point. We positioned the Outdoor Classroom adjacent to the Golden Mile track and surfaced underneath with Play Grass. This has enabled the children to access the classroom in Winter without walking over the field. This also means that the Outdoor Classroom can be used as a resting point when completing the Golden Mile. The Outdoor Classroom has a Chalkboard to assist teaching and can comfortably seat over 40 children.
Related stories
Wellington Prep School, Taunton
Wellington Prep is a bright and vibrant school in the heart of Wellington, near Taunton. We were contacted and asked to replace their old Trim Trail and brighten up their blank tarmac space...