NURSERY EYFS KS1 KS2

Dalmain School, Lewisham

2 min read

Dalmain Primary School in Lewisham is a valued customer that we’ve had the pleasure of working with for a long time. Over the years, we've worked closely together to transform their Nursery, EYFS, KS1 and KS2 play spaces, alongside installing five bespoke canopies that now support outdoor learning throughout the school.

The long-standing partnership between Headteacher Erika and our Outdoor Learning Consultant, Sam, is strong thanks to their shared belief in creating inspiring environments where every child can learn, play and thrive outdoors.

A Clear Vision

The latest phase of the project focused on three key priorities:

Increasing shaded outdoor learning spaces to the front of the school, building on the success of the canopies already installed at the rear.
Demonstrating continued investment in the school environment for existing and prospective families.
Creating flexible, all-weather spaces that allow outdoor learning to continue throughout the year.

Within the Nursery, the aim was to create a more open, free-flowing environment that encouraged loose parts play, alongside opportunities to develop both gross and fine motor skills.

A Transformation in Every Sense

The difference has been remarkable.

Where large areas of concrete once forced learning indoors at the first sign of rain, children now enjoy vibrant outdoor spaces whatever the weather. The addition of bronze polycarbonate roofing has made an especially noticeable difference, significantly reducing temperatures beneath the canopies during warmer months and creating comfortable spaces for learning all year round.

The impact on Early Years has been particularly significant. Children now move seamlessly between indoor and outdoor environments, accessing every area of learning outside while developing confidence, resilience and independence through play. New features, including the Stepping Tree Rope Traverse and Ramp & Tunnel Hill, have created exciting opportunities to develop balance, coordination and gross motor skills through active play.

A Space That Inspires

For many children at Dalmain, who live in flats or homes with little outdoor space, these environments provide something truly invaluable - the freedom to run, explore, imagine and simply enjoy being outdoors.

One particularly popular addition has been the versatile sandpit. When open, it encourages sensory exploration and collaborative play. When closed, it transforms into a stage where children perform, tell stories and develop their language and communication skills. As an added bonus, the secure lids also keep the sand fox-proof, making life easier for staff!

Enhancing the Whole School Community

The improvements have transformed more than learning opportunities.

The new canopies have softened the appearance of the school's historic buildings, creating welcoming spaces that are used throughout the day by pupils, parents and staff alike. They now provide shelter for outdoor learning, parent reading sessions, celebrations, school events and even the school's very first Nursery graduation.

"The canopies are so beautifully built, and your installation team have been incredible. We chose to carry out the work during term time so the children could experience the construction process, and your team managed it brilliantly, even within our compact inner-city setting.

Phoenix Play have been so reliable on every project we've worked on together. Every single installation has been completed ahead of schedule."

"It's all about bringing the outside in and the inside out to create one seamless learning experience. It's just perfect."

Looking Ahead

Dalmain Primary School's outdoor spaces now reflect the ambition and creativity that exists inside the classroom. From everyday learning to special celebrations, the new environments are inspiring children to be active, adventurous and curious every single day, helping children to enjoy outdoor learning through play for years to come.