Gaelscoil Dara is a repeat customer, having previously worked with us on a separate outdoor area within the school grounds. That earlier project proved very successful, which led the school to get back in touch with Schools Grass when issues arose in another part of their playground.
This time, the focus was the main playground area - a large space used daily by pupils and staff. While functional in dry conditions, the existing surface had become increasingly difficult to manage throughout the school year, particularly during periods of sustained wet weather.
The area measured approximately 400 square metres and was previously finished in mulch. While mulch can be suitable in some settings, this playground was experiencing ongoing drainage problems. Water was slow to disperse, and after rainfall the surface often remained wet for long periods.
As a result, the space was frequently unavailable for use. Sections became messy and uneven, and the overall condition of the playground deteriorated over time. This was frustrating for staff and limited opportunities for outdoor play, especially during the wetter months.
In addition, the playground contained a number of permanent play structures that were already in place and in regular use. Any new surface would need to be installed around this equipment without disrupting layout, access, or safety.
The school’s goals for the upgrade were clear and practical:
The brief was not about changing how the space was used, but about making it dependable in all weather conditions.
Before installing the new surface, sections of the existing mulch were removed. Areas that had suffered most from poor drainage were addressed directly, with improvements made to help water move away from the surface more effectively.
Some grass mounds within the playground were also replaced as part of the works. These adjustments helped improve levels across the area and ensured the new surface would sit correctly once installed.
Taking the time to prepare the base properly was an important part of this project. Without addressing the underlying drainage issues, replacing the surface alone would not have delivered a long-term solution.
Once preparation works were complete, artificial grass was installed across the full playground area.
Because the playground equipment remained in place throughout, the grass had to be carefully cut and shaped to fit precisely around each structure. This required detailed on-site work to ensure clean edges and a neat, continuous finish across the entire space.
The result is a surface that feels uniform and secure underfoot, with no loose material or uneven patches. The artificial grass provides a stable and safe play area that performs consistently regardless of weather conditions.
The upgraded playground is now fully usable throughout the school year. Drainage has been significantly improved, meaning the area dries quickly after rainfall and no longer needs to be closed due to surface conditions.
From a practical point of view, the new surface reduces maintenance demands and removes the need for regular top-ups or levelling that mulch often requires. For staff, this means fewer interruptions. For pupils, it means more consistent access to outdoor play.
Visually, the playground also benefits from a cleaner and more defined finish. The artificial grass creates a clear, usable and safe space around the existing equipment while maintaining a natural appearance suited to a school environment.
Working with Gaelscoil Dara again was a continuation of an existing relationship rather than a first-time installation. The school had already seen how a well-planned surface upgrade could improve an outdoor area, which informed their decision to move ahead with this project, addressing a different space with different challenges, but the same aim: creating outdoor areas that work reliably for schools in Irish conditions.
The completed playground now supports daily school life without being dictated by the weather. It is a robust, practical solution designed to handle constant use while remaining safe and accessible.
By replacing an unreliable mulch surface with artificial grass and improving drainage at the same time, Gaelscoil Dara now has a playground area that can be used as intended - throughout the year, not just on dry days.
Get in touch today to discuss your school playground project and learn how durable, well-installed artificial grass can improve usability, safety, and long-term performance in school environments.
