Case study: Oaklands Primary School – Eleonor Shaw, Head Teacher

Oaklands school children delighted
with new playground equipment

BACKGROUND

Mrs Shaw invited us to return to Oaklands School, Leicester, to see how the children were utilising the new playground equipment. Mrs Shaw said “I would be happy to recommend Pentagon to any school which is considering improving its outdoor space. Pentagon don’t just sell products, they sell solutions and their consultative approach meant that they were able to fulfil our specific requirements within our budget. They were flexible enough to change the specifications late in the process to reflect a change in need from our side”.

WHAT WAS NEEDED

Oaklands is a special school for girls and boys with moderate learning difficulties. They identified a need for an outdoor classroom to provide a structured learning environment that was accessible all year round. Pentagon designed a 19m long canopy weather-sealed to the building and partitioned with 1.5m fence and lockable gates.

“This allows us to deliver the entire curriculum in a more appropriate way” explained Mrs Shaw. “Where previously we had a large open space we are now able to focus learning in a safe and sheltered outdoor environment that the children enjoy more than the classroom”.

FUNDING

The school also benefited from a shade sail and all-weather surface within the courtyard. Mrs Shaw chose Pentagon’s shade sail as it offered the additional benefit of being 100% waterproof, thus enabling use of the area in any weather, not just on sunny days.

The shade sail and the timber canopy were funded through the school’s devolved capital but a local organisation (LEICESTER LIONS) kindly donated the funds for the adventure trim trail. The low level trim trail was designed in conjunction with the teaching staff to promote physical development. The children are delighted with the result and are learning to share and take turns.

THE SOLUTION

“It is the best school playground ever!” said Connor, as he played on the trim trail. “The children are relishing the physical challenge – stretching, balancing and co-ordination are all improving” said Lucy, the teacher responsible for the play area.

“I wouldn’t hesitate in using Pentagon again, their designs are thoughtful and the installation team understood the needs of our school. All in all they are professional from the first meeting through to the installation”.

GOING FORWARD

Ms Shaw said the new playground has enhanced the appearance of the area & the opportunities for children within child-initiated learning – it makes for happier children in a beautiful environment.