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The serious business of play at Banchory
Caledonia Play, Scotland's leading manufacturers of modular and standalone timber outdoor play and learning equipment, was commissioned by Banchory Nursery and Primary School to develop a natural outdoor learning environment in October 2008.
The project, which was successfully completed in June 2009, comprises open and covered seating, a bespoke timber outdoor classroom with capacity for 40-50 students, a tree platform and trim trail. In addition, there is an outdoor stage area, a group basket swing to encourage inclusive play and a multiactivity tower structure.
Designed to support and enhance CfE, a key consideration was that the play equipment should be multipurpose and multifunctional to provide excellent value for money.
"Our aim was to provide an outdoor learning space that is inspiring and different and suitable for a wide age range," said Sarah Bruce Jones, director of Caledonia Play. "The use of natural sustainable timber means that the structures blend perfectly in the school's woodland setting."
Head teacher Rosee Elliot said: "Overall, I was very impressed by the quality of materials used and the speed with which the installations were completed."
She added: "The outdoor learning areas are in use every day and are proving invaluable in enhancing physical and social skills for pupils. Not only is it helping develop fine motor skills but pupils are taught how to share."
Funds for the project were partly raised by the pupils themselves and the PTA.
Pupils won the Total Green Awards in 2008 when they designed and sold reusable bags locally to cut down on the number of plastic bags being used in supermarkets.
Landscaping for the project was provided by Bon Accord Landscaping & Tree Services and the installation was carried out by Caledonia's own team of experienced technicians.