BACKGROUND

Tendercubs Pre-School and Day Nursery is committed to providing high-quality early years education and care that supports individual development. The nursery focuses on helping children build confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of learning, while creating an inclusive and welcoming environment that celebrates respect, diversity and individuality.

PROJECT BRIEF

The nursery’s existing outdoor play space had become uninspiring with limited opportunities for play. With equipment that had reached the end of its lifespan, the nursery wanted to transform the outdoor space into a stimulating and engaging environment that would provide children with a wider variety of activities to enjoy throughout the year.

With a large outdoor area available, the brief was to make better use of the space by introducing a variety of EYFS-suitable play opportunities, including climbing equipment, mounds, mud kitchens, and sand and water play.

THE DESIGN PROCESS

The Local Area Manager met with the nursery owner to discuss their vision and ideas for transforming the outdoor space. The nursery wanted to create an engaging environment that would keep children active and engaged throughout the day, while making better use of the available space. With funding already in place, they were ready to move forward with the design.

A key priority was ensuring the new play area supported all seven areas of the EYFS framework and provided a variety of opportunities for children to learn and develop through play.

Based on the nursery’s requirements, a design and quotation were created and presented to the owner. Following a few minor adjustments, the final design and price were agreed, and work could begin on transforming the outdoor space at Tendercubs.

7 AREAS OF LEARNING

The new outdoor play space at Tendercubs has been carefully designed to provide a wide range of play opportunities that support children’s development across all seven areas of the EYFS framework.

Physical Development

The EYFS Tower 3, Pick Up Sticks 2 and Physical Development Blocks. Encouraging children to develop balance, coordination, strength and gross motor skills through active play.

Communication & Language

The variety of play opportunities encourages children to communicate, interact and develop their language skills. Role play, collaborative activities and imaginative play give children opportunities to talk, listen and share ideas with others.

Personal, Social & Emotional Development

The Mud Kitchen, Role Play House, EYFS Tower 3 and Children at Work Cog encourage children to develop confidence, independence and social skills. Providing opportunities to cooperate, take turns and engage in shared play.

Literacy

The Mark Making Water Wall, Chalkboard and Paint Board provide opportunities for children to experiment with mark making, develop early writing skills and express their ideas creatively.

Mathematics

The Water Table, Magnetic Water Wall and Timber Planter encourage children to explore mathematical concepts through practical play. Including counting, measuring, comparing and exploring size, quantity and space.

Understanding the World

The Mud Kitchen, Role Play House, Water Table and Timber Planter encourage children to explore their surroundings. Experimenting with natural materials and develop an understanding of the world around them.

Expressive Arts & Design

The Chalkboard, Paint Board, Bongos and Piano encourage children to express themselves through music, art and creative play. Supporting imagination, creativity and self-expression.

OTHER PROJECTS TO READ

St Mary’s CE (Aided) Primary School

Children’s House Nursery School

Good Shepherd Catholic Academy