KS1 KS2

Ghyllgrove Primary School, Basildon

2 min read

Creating inclusive outdoor spaces for every stage of development

Ghyllgrove Community Primary School & Resource Base for Deaf Children is a school with a clear focus on ensuring every child feels safe, happy and able to achieve their best.

With a well-structured curriculum that builds progressively throughout each child’s time at the school, the team wanted their outdoor spaces to reflect the same approach. When Headteacher Rachelle approached Phoenix Play, the aim was to create exciting new environments for both EYFS/KS1 and KS2, with opportunities for children to develop physically, socially and creatively.

Designing for progression

Rachelle wanted the EYFS/KS1 playground to provide plenty of opportunities for physical development, while also encouraging imaginative and collaborative play that could be enjoyed by children of different ages and abilities.

Our Outdoor Learning Consultant, Gemma, worked closely with the school to understand their priorities and develop a design around them.

A central tower creates an exciting sense of challenge, giving children something they can grow into as their skills and confidence develop. The den spaces underneath provide quieter opportunities for social interaction, imaginative play and communication.

Stepping trees, an A-frame and bridge add further physical challenges, while helping to turn the playground into an environment where children can create their own games, stories and adventures.

For KS2, the focus was on providing progression from the skills developed in EYFS/KS1, while continuing to offer meaningful opportunities for active play and social interaction.

The Gelada Rig climbaround provides a progression of physical skills whilst maintaining a socially interactive space due to the unique structure. The surrounding gym equipment adds further opportunities; maintaining excitement and inclusivity as children explore the different physical motions offered.

Designed for inclusive play

From the outset, the school wanted the new spaces to be exciting and visually impressive, but also purposeful. Physical development, communication and language, imaginative play and social interaction were all important considerations.

All-weather access was another key priority. Both playgrounds were surfaced with Phoenix Play's Play Grass, creating practical, durable spaces that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

The result is two outdoor environments designed to support children at different stages of their development, with opportunities to challenge themselves, play alongside others, use their imagination and develop new skills.

Most importantly, the spaces give children the freedom to choose how they play and the opportunity to grow in confidence as they take on new challenges.

A collaborative process from start to finish

For Ghyllgrove, the design process was just as important as the finished spaces. The school wanted a partner who would take the time to understand its pupils and educational priorities, rather than simply provide playground equipment.

Rachelle felt Phoenix Play's approach offered exactly that. From the initial conversations through to installation, Gemma and the wider team listened carefully, shared ideas and made adjustments to ensure the final design reflected the school's vision.

The installation was completed smoothly and efficiently, with the team working professionally and minimising disruption to the school.

“We chose Phoenix Play because of their excellent reputation, creative designs and understanding of educational environments. Gemma demonstrated a clear appreciation of our vision for the space and offered innovative ideas that would meet the needs of our pupils.”

Rachelle Tidiman, Headteacher

“The communication and design process was excellent from start to finish. The team listened carefully to our requirements, took the time to understand the needs of our children and provided thoughtful design suggestions.”

Rachelle Tidiman, Headteacher

“Their professionalism, creativity, and commitment to delivering high-quality spaces have been outstanding and the positive impact on our pupils has exceeded our expectations.”

Rachelle Tidiman, Headteacher