A challenging new outdoor play area is helping to keep students fit and active at a Stoke-on-Trent school.

Cicely Haughton School’s outdated playground and recreation yard was completely revamped with support from Hand Made Places.

Working with teachers and trustees, our team was able to make the school’s vision for a play environment which promotes positive physical and mental health into a reality.

It is hoped the improvements will form a key role in enrichment experiences, extending student learning and building on the school’s meaningful approach to personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education.

Energetic play is supported with the addition of a Trim Trail and bespoke play unit.

The Beddington Climbaround, built specially for the site, features a slide, fireman’s pole, bridges, scramble nets and multi-level platforms.

The elements in the unit are designed to encourage children to think about problem solving and build communication skills as they make their way across the play tower.

An Amazon Rope Climber ramps up the adventure levels even further. Designed to really test physical ability, the equipment also opens up the chance for young people to explore themes such as risk taking and challenging expectations.

Swing Steps, a Triple Traverse Wall and a Wobble Bridge from our Trim Trail collection add another dimension to the play area.

In the top playground, the school, run by Manor Hall Academy Trust, asked Hand Made Places to install an outdoor gym zone with support from sister company Sunshine Gym.

The Children’s Activ8 unit is designed to increase social interaction across different age and ability groups and combines a Double Health Walker, Double Slalom Skier, Waist Twister, Tai Chi Discs and Arm And Pedal Bike.

A bespoke climbing wall has also been manufactured for the outdoor gym, while traditional school yard games and sports can be enjoyed on the bright and colourful range of playground markings laid down by our teams.

Finally, in the playing field, a Nest Swing adds to the fun factor.

Hand Made Places supported Cicely Haughton School throughout the project, from design to installation and surfacing services.

The school provides education for 50 pupils, aged four to 11, who have social, emotional and mental health difficulties.