The trial area quickly became the heart of the yard. Pupils were playing in ways they hadn’t before. The contrast between the dull tarmac and the vibrant green grass was hard to ignore. Teachers immediately noticed the difference too - more outdoor play, and a generally happier atmosphere.
For the school, it wasn’t just a test of materials - it was a proof of concept. They could now see, touch, and experience what artificial grass could bring to their environment. It also became the perfect fundraising showcase, giving the community something tangible to support.
Over the following months, the school’s fundraising efforts gained real momentum. By November 2025, they had secured the funds to bring SchoolsGrass back - this time, to transform the entire yard.
The finished project is nothing short of remarkable. What was once a bleak tarmac surface is now a colourful, multi-zone play area designed for fun, safety, and creativity.
One section of the yard was turned into a sports zone, complete with a vibrant green artificial grass surface featuring integrated white markings for goal posts. Surrounding the pitch is a two-lane running and walking track, finished in red and blue grass. It gives pupils space to move, race, and burn off energy - without the risk of the harsh impact of falling on tarmac.
In another section, we introduced a play and learning area featuring colourful shapes, hopscotch, and PlaySquares. These bright, built-in designs encourage imaginative play and help teachers integrate movement into learning. It’s a space where games, creativity, and collaboration happen naturally - and every corner now feels alive.
Every playground we build is designed for real-world use, and Iona Road was no exception. The chosen grass types are specifically engineered to handle heavy foot traffic, ideal for busy schoolyards that see hundreds of children running, jumping, and playing every day. Beneath the surface, the foam underlay provides a crucial layer of safety cushioning - softer underfoot and compliant with playground safety standards.
The grass is also ready to use quickly after rainfall, meaning outdoor playtime doesn’t have to wait for perfect weather.The result?
A yard that looks good, performs well, and keeps teachers and pupils happy.
What stands out most about this project is how it grew - quite literally - from the ground up. The small trial area installed in 2024 wasn’t just a test; it was a spark that set a whole project in motion. It gave the school something to believe in and something to rally around.
Today, Iona Road School has a playground that matches its energy - vibrant, safe, and built to last. The transformation has changed how pupils use their outdoor space and how the school community feels about it. What was once a dull grey expanse is now a welcoming, engaging environment that encourages play, teamwork, and movement.
Not every school can commit to a full installation straight away - and that’s okay. A trial area, just like Iona Road’s, is a great way to see what artificial grass can do for your school. It’s a low-risk way to test how it looks, feels, and performs while giving your fundraising efforts a boost.
If you’re considering improving your schoolyard, get in touch with the SchoolsGrass team. We can help you design and install a small-scale trial area, complete with foam underlay, so you can experience the benefits first-hand.
Get in touch today to discuss your school’s project - and let’s turn your playground from grey to great.
