Case Studies

Inclusive Sensory Playground for St. Mary’s School, London

Challenge: St. Mary’s School was dedicated to providing quality education to children with a wide range of special educational needs. They sought an inclusive playground design that would not only accommodate their diverse student population but also stimulate sensory development and encourage social interaction.

Solution: Our team conducted a thorough assessment of the school’s outdoor space and collaborated closely with the school’s staff, therapists, and parents. The result was a transformative sensory playground featuring:

• Sensory Garden: We created a lush sensory garden with a variety of textured plants, fragrant flowers, and wind chimes to engage different senses.
• Accessible Play Equipment: We installed wheelchair-accessible swings, slides, and interactive panels that catered to various physical abilities.
• Communication Hub: A communication hub with visual aids and sign language resources was incorporated to support non-verbal communication.
• Safety Measures: The design included cushioned flooring and protective barriers to ensure the safety of all children.

Outcome: The new inclusive sensory playground at St. Mary’s School has become a hub of activity and learning for students with special educational needs. Teachers reported increased engagement, improved communication, and enhanced sensory development among the children. The project received widespread recognition within the community and showcased the power of inclusive playground design in supporting children with diverse needs.

Multi-Sensory Playground at Woodside Community Centre, Manchester

Challenge: The Woodside Community Centre wanted to create an outdoor space that would serve as a beacon of inclusion and offer children with disabilities a place to play, learn, and bond with their peers.

Solution: Our team designed a multi-sensory playground that addressed the unique needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities. Key elements of the design included:

• Sensory Zones: We incorporated various sensory zones, including tactile paths, musical play areas, and visual stimulation through colourful, interactive installations.
• Accessible Play Structures: Custom-designed play structures featured ramps, platforms, and tactile elements to accommodate children with mobility challenges.
• Shade and Rest Areas: To cater to children with sensory sensitivities, we added quiet, shaded areas with comfortable seating.
• Community Input: We engaged the local community in the design process to ensure the playground met the needs and preferences of the residents.

Outcome: The multi-sensory playground at Woodside Community Centre has become a model of inclusive design, promoting social interaction, sensory exploration, and physical development among children with special educational needs. The project united the community, fostered inclusivity, and provided a safe and engaging space for children of all abilities.

Inclusive Nature Playground for Ravenscroft School, Edinburgh

Challenge: Ravenscroft School wanted to enhance its outdoor space to create a natural, inclusive playground that would encourage outdoor learning and exploration for students with special educational needs.

Solution: Our team designed an inclusive nature playground featuring:

• Natural Play Elements: We integrated elements such as log balance beams, tree stump seating, and sand play areas to connect children with nature.
• Sensory Pathway: A sensory pathway with different textures, sounds, and fragrances was created to stimulate sensory development.
• Accessible Outdoor Classroom: An outdoor classroom with adjustable seating and sensory learning tools was incorporated to support outdoor education.
• Safety Features: The playground included safety measures like safety surfacing and handrails for accessibility.

Outcome: The inclusive nature playground at Ravenscroft School has become a haven for outdoor learning and exploration. Teachers have reported improved focus, engagement, and a deeper connection with nature among students with special educational needs. The project demonstrated the benefits of nature-based play and inclusive design in supporting holistic development for children with diverse abilities.