St Thomas of Canterbury RC Primary School

Project Info:

Location: Mitcham, Surrey

Age Range: 7 - 11 Years Old

Budget: £38,000

Sector: Primary

Project Info:

Location: Mitcham, Surrey

Age Range: 7 - 11 Years Old

Budget: £38,000

Sector: Primary

A playground climbing frame with blue panels is set on a triangular patch of artificial grass surrounded by tarmac.

A playground with climbing equipment on artificial grass, bordered by asphalt with chalk drawings, near a school building and fenced area under a partly cloudy sky.

Outdoor play area with artificial grass, playground equipment, a bench, and a blue building with large windows under a partly cloudy sky.

Key Outcomes

A more flexible and secure SEN area, thoughtfully designed to support a range of needs and provide a safe, accessible space for all children.
The wooden climbing frame has made the playground feel more inviting, while the addition of artificial grass provides a comfortable space where children enjoy sitting, reading, and relaxing.
An environment that supports physical development, helping children build upper body strength, coordination, and confidence through active play.
Children are now reading, sitting calmly, and interacting positively around the equipment. Previously, the more sterile environment led to running and chasing, whereas now they play cooperatively and are enjoying their break times more.

Customer Feedback

I found the whole experience an extremely stress free one, which was wonderful. I was kept fully informed at every stage and the work was carried out whilst the children were in school. The contractors were very respectful and careful, and I would have no hesitation in recommending Fawns to anyone.

J. Newton, School Business Manager

BACKGROUND

St Thomas of Canterbury RC Primary School, located in Mitcham, is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment where every child is valued. Encouraging the chidlren to play an active role in the school community.

The school promotes strong Catholic values through prayer, worship, and shared experiences, while fostering respect, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging for all pupils, regardless of background. It offers a broad and ambitious curriculum designed to meet the needs of every child, supporting them to become confident, independent learners.

PROJECT BRIEF

The existing area for children contained wooden equipment that had deteriorated over time and was no longer safe, having failed its most recent inspection. The surfacing also required frequent and costly repairs, making it impractical to maintain.

The school wanted to replace this with new equipment that would support upper body strength, balance, and sensory development, while encouraging social interaction and inclusive play. They had built up capital funding over two years and were ready to invest it into improving the space.

THE DESIGN PROCESS

The local outdoor play consultant held an initial meeting with the School Business Manager and SENCo to review the project, assessing the existing outdoor area, which included the existing trim trail. During the visit, the consultant discussed a range of potential equipment and design options tailored to the space. Ensuring that the new play area would meet both the physical and developmental needs of the children.

Based on these discussions, a design and quotation were presented to the school. After incorporating minor adjustments, a final design was approved, providing a clear plan for the upgraded play area.

The process ensured that the new space would be safe, engaging, and inclusive. Supporting a variety of play and learning opportunities for all pupils.

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