A natural playground transformation bringing endless opportunities for outdoor play and fun!
This space is the perfect example of how expert design and carefully thought-out resources can transform even a compact play area into a fully equipped zone for adventure, exploration and fun. Newby Leisure has created a vibrant outdoor space designed to inspire hands-on, inclusive play for the children of Gedney Church End Primary Academy this summer.
The focal point of this design is a unique Robinia clamber tree structure set on a bed of artificial grass, chosen to encourage physical activity during outdoor play. This feature supports the development of gross motor skills while helping early years children build confidence in climbing and jumping. Robinia was selected for its durability and its striking natural aesthetic.
To further promote active play, we added a traverse wall, allowing children to climb along and develop fine motor skills, coordination and grip strength. Both features are installed on artificial grass, providing a soft, cushioned surface that helps keep children safe as they challenge themselves physically.
Additional freestanding resources, such as a Painting Window and Weaving Panel, were added to the artificial grass area to encourage hands-on creativity. These features provide children with opportunities for self-expression allowing them to explore colours, textures and patterns.
Different zones were incorporated around the artificial grass area to create a variety of engaging play opportunities. A dedicated area for messy play displays a Digging Box, Creative Activity Table and Nature Table. Messy inspires creativity and exploration through different textures, while also supporting the development of fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Positioned close to this area, we also added a Construction Hut and a Mini Bug Hotel. This area is complemented by a Mounted Chalkboard and Mirror, introducing additional creative elements and encouraging exploration, expression and role play within the space.
The final section of the playground is dedicated to storytelling and mark-making. A bespoke timber shelter extends from the classroom, creating a covered outdoor learning space. PVC coverings have been installed to enclose the shelter, allowing the area to be sectioned off from the wider playground during adverse weather conditions. To complete this creative space, a Mark Making Table has been added to encourage drawing and expressive mark making. A dedicated reading area positioned outside of this shelter, features a Storytellers Chair, Toddler Timber Stools and a practical Reading Cupboard for book storage.
This outdoor space has been thoughtfully designed to offer a wide variety of play experiences that support active, creative and sensory learning. Newby Leisure has given the children of Gedney with opportunities to explore, imagine and develop key skills through outdoor play.
If you like what you see and would like a design similar to Gedney Church End Primary Academy, call or email the Newby team today using the details below!
Tel: 01472 2320022
Email: sales@newbyleisure.com
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If you like what you see, and would like a design similar to this, contact the Newby team today using the button below!
Download our 2026 Natural Playground Design Brochure. It's full of fantastic playground design and timber education supplies.
With a free site visit and free hand-drawn design from the Newby Leisure team, it couldn’t be easier to make a start on your new playground vision.
