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The Customer
Ysgol Llandygai is situated in a quiet village on the outskirts of the city of Bangor. Headteacher, Elfed Morris wanted to make better use of the schools beautiful, natural grounds. Ysgol Llandygai is a bilingual school, teaching supports the Welsh language within a social context.
The new outdoor development would provide the ideal space for groups of children of different ages to practise speaking Welsh in a relaxed environment.
Their Objectives
Ysgol Llandygai wanted an outdoor area where lessons could comfortably take place within nature. It was vital that the space could be used in all weathers, allowing pupils to enjoy the benefits of outdoor learning during the changing seasons.
The school also recognised the need for a new, active space that would encourage children to take risks and challenge themselves. The area would need to be accessible to a variety of age groups so that it could be well used by all classes.
Our Approach
Outdoor Learning Consultant, Sam Jones, knew that an Outdoor Classroom would provide the perfect base for group and whole class lessons within nature.
Ysgol Llandygai opted for our 5M Hexagonal Gazebo with a Decked Base. This impressive structure is made from high-pressure treated ‘play grade’ timber with a water-tight bitumen shingle-covered roof. Bench seating allows full classes of up to 30 children to sit comfortably and enjoy outdoor lessons.
A decked base ensures that the space is clean and mud free!
To create an active playground space the school decided to create their own Trim Trail, selecting from our wide range of obstacles. Five key pieces were chosen including:
• A Log Balance Weaver with Horizontal Beam
• A Step Rope Traverse
• A Platform-to-Platform Beam Crossing
• A Wobbly Log Traverse
• A Set of 4 Forest Climbing Poles
Although the trail was to be situated on a grassy area, Sam advised fitting our Deluxe Artificial Grass Playturf directly underneath the trail. Playturf offers a natural surfacing option without the upkeep of grass. Play can take place in all weathers and pupils are provided with a soft, safe surface to land on and cushion any trips or falls.
The Results
The impressive, new gazebo provides the ultimate outdoor, sheltered learning space for Ysgol Llandygai. The school added a sensory pathway leading up to the gazebo and various planters where students can grow flowers and vegetables.
The classroom is the perfect place for children to learn about the world around them as they develop their observational skills and learn how to communicate and collaborate with their peers. The gazebo promotes positive mental health, providing a calming, breakout space for both pupils and staff.
The exciting Trim Trail has given children a new physical focus during recreation time. Pupils have developed strength, balance and agility by supporting and encouraging each other to complete the course.
The Wobbly Log Traverse has been a favourite obstacle for pupils as they learn to keep the log stable whilst moving their bodies in different ways. Many new games have been generated by children from different year groups, whether it be trekking through the jungle, performing in a circus or chasing each other through the course!
It was a pleasure to motivate and excite the lucky pupils at Ysgol Llandygai. We hope they will continue to be inspired by the new additions to their playspace for many years to come.
Are you looking to create a space just like Ysgol Llandygai? Look no further than Pentagon Play, get in contact with one of our friendly team members who can guide you through the process!