Early Learning Centre - £95,000
Natural Green Playground Design and Installation in Selhurst Croydon
The Early Learning Centre in Selhurst, Surrey, has recently undergone a stunning transformation with the installation of a new natural green playground, designed to inspire learning, play, and exploration.
The project, located in the heart of Croydon, was conceived to create an environment where children could connect with nature while developing their physical, sensory, and social skills.
Quote from The Head Teacher
" I would like to say that I myself , together with The Governors and the entire teaching staff are absolutely amazed at the wonderful transformation you and your delightful team have created to our school Play Areas.
It is a real pleasure to watch the children playing and investigating all these fabulous and exciting new areas; the Vegetable Garden and The Sensory garden are like magnets for our children and I must say that your School Planting Scheme is out of this world.
We have all been most impressed with your cheerful , happy and highly efficient team; nothing was too much trouble for them and our children will really miss them ; we are all still amazed at the speed at which they have worked to complete this very large project in such a short time.
I would not hesitate to recommend your company to any other schools. I hope you will make it to our Grand Opening Day next Friday "
The playground’s design centers on a holistic approach to early learning, incorporating a variety of thoughtfully planned zones. One of the highlights is the Sensory Garden, a space filled with tactile, aromatic, and visually stimulating plants. Here, children can explore different textures, colors, and scents, fostering curiosity and encouraging interactive play.
Complementing this is the Vegetable and Fruit Garden, where children are invited to plant, nurture, and harvest produce. This hands-on experience teaches them about growth cycles, healthy eating, and sustainability in a fun, engaging way.
Features of this Playground
- £105,000 bespoke EYFS playground in Camden NW1
- Designed by Robert Sergent-Fairley
- Focus on natural materials and organic design
- Encourages imaginative, physical, and social play
- Includes varied zones for active and quiet activities
- Supports early years development and outdoor learning
- Built with high precision and craftsmanship
- Delivered with minimal disruption to the school
- Children engaged by watching construction progress
- Praised by Executive Head Teacher for quality and uniqueness
- Functions as both a play space and outdoor classroom
- Creates a safe, stimulating, and inspiring environment
Adding to the immersive experience is the exotic planting area, featuring a selection of unusual and vibrant plants. This not only enhances the playground’s aesthetic appeal but also introduces children to flora they might not encounter in everyday life.
Multiple dedicated play areas have been incorporated, including climbing structures, open spaces for imaginative play, and quiet nooks for reflection or small-group activities. A carefully designed water feature further enriches the environment, allowing children to interact with flowing water under safe supervision, enhancing sensory exploration and imaginative play.
The project was executed with remarkable efficiency and professionalism. The installation team worked swiftly, maintaining high standards of quality while minimizing disruption to the school’s routine. Their cheerful and approachable demeanor made them a favorite among staff and children alike.
Quotes From Parents
“My child comes home excited every day, telling me about the adventures they had climbing, balancing, and exploring.”
“It’s wonderful to see how the playground encourages teamwork and imaginative play – my little one has made so many new friends.”
“The natural design is beautiful, and I love that it sparks curiosity and creativity in the children.”
“I can see the confidence my child has gained since playing here – they take risks safely and learn from every experience.”
“Watching them interact with such a thoughtfully designed space makes me so grateful for the care that went into creating it.”
The impact of the playground is already evident. Children are drawn to the different zones, exploring and experimenting with the gardens, climbing structures, and water features with enthusiasm and delight.
The design promotes both structured and unstructured play, supporting the development of physical coordination, creativity, and cognitive skills. Staff have noted that the playground encourages cooperation, sharing, and problem-solving as children navigate the different areas together.
The new playground at Selhurst Early Learning Centre stands as a shining example of how thoughtful design and careful installation can create spaces that are both beautiful and educational.
This project demonstrates the transformative power of integrating nature into learning environments, enriching the everyday experiences of children in meaningful and lasting ways.
