St. Thomas NS Inclusive Play Space Transformation

St-Thomas-National-School-Artificial-Grass

When St. Thomas National School approached us, they weren’t just looking to refresh a yard - they wanted an outdoor space with purpose. The aim was to create an area that supported active play, offered sensory opportunities, and still provided quieter corners for pupils who needed a calmer environment. The artificial grass installation has completely reshaped how the space functions, giving the school a reliable surface that works for children throughout the year.

The new surface is soft, tidy and predictable, making it comfortable for pupils whether they’re running, sitting, stretching out, or simply taking a moment to themselves. For staff, the difference is immediate: no mud, no worn patches, and far fewer weather-related restrictions. Outdoor time no longer depends on whether the grass has dried - the yard is ready whenever the children are.

A carefully considered design helped bring the space together. With playful colours in a hopscotch game and shapes like pawprints woven into the layout, the area now has gentle visual cues that guide activity without feeling rigid. Certain sections encourage movement, group interaction and imaginative play, while other pockets feel naturally calmer and more contained. Pupils can transition between energy and quiet as they need, which was a key priority from the outset.

This flexibility is especially meaningful for children in the school’s ASD unit. Their sensory needs can shift from moment to moment, and the new layout supports that. Teachers now have an outdoor environment that works for everything from structured sessions and group games to quiet breaks or one-to-one activities. It’s an adaptable space that meets children where they are.

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For St. Thomas, the upgrade hasn’t just improved the appearance of the yard - it has expanded what the space can offer. The low-maintenance artificial grass keeps the area looking fresh with minimal effort, and its all-weather usability means outdoor learning and play are no longer limited by the elements. It’s a practical, inclusive improvement that serves the whole school community.

For the team at SchoolsGrass, this project is another reminder that artificial grass can play a meaningful role in supporting wellbeing and learning. With the right design, it becomes more than just a surface: it becomes a tool that helps schools offer safer, more engaging, more flexible outdoor experiences.