New North Academy Islington London - £80,000
A Playground Design and Installation at New North Academy in Islington London
New Playground Installation at New North Academy, Islington, London
New North Academy, located in the heart of Islington, London, has recently transformed a once uninspiring playground into a vibrant hub of activity, thanks to a £80,000 investment in a new playground design and installation by Robert Sergent- Fairley.
the project turned a bland, open asphalt area—previously devoid of climbing or activity structures—into a dynamic space tailored for children aged 8 to 11, addressing both physical fitness and social engagement.
Quote from the Head, Nicola Percy
"I would like to place on record my deepest thanks to you Robert for this absolutely amazing Activity Paradise which your brilliant Team has created for our children.
It took quite some time for us to battle through the processes and all the red tape but this result is absolutely fantastic.I thought that the Activity structure you created for me at my last Headship , was the most amazing ever.
However this all timber Multiplay system of lower and higher platforms , beats the last one , hands down !
In fact , I think it beats all your previous school ones hands down !On behalf of all the staff , the children and the governors , I send my deepest thanks to you and your amazing team
"
Before the installation of the new multiplay structure, the playground’s limitations were evident.
With no climbing frames, slides, or interactive equipment, children often resorted to physical arguments and disruptive behaviour during playtime. The lack of engaging facilities contributed to low activity levels and, in some cases, weight management issues among the pupils. The school staff recognized the urgent need for a space that would encourage exercise, creativity, and team play, prompting the development of a carefully designed timber multiplay system.
Features of this Playground
- Timber Activity Structure – climbing and imaginative play
- Tree House – magical hideaway
- Pavilion – outdoor classroom space
- World Garden – interactive planting area
- Rubber Tiles with Grass – safe, all-year surface
- Evergreen Planting – year-round greenery
- Palm Trees – adventurous feel
- Seating Areas – rest and social spaces
- Green Grass Road – imaginative pathway
- All-Weather Design – durable for inner-city use
The playground, designed and installed by Robert Sergent- Fairley, incorporates both lower and higher platforms, allowing multiple children to play and climb simultaneously.
This thoughtful design fosters social interaction, cooperative games, and imaginative play, encouraging children to invent their own activities while staying active. The installation has provided a much-needed outlet for energy and creativity, creating a safer and more enjoyable environment during breaks.
The impact of the new playground has been immediate and profound.
Children now actively engage in climbing, balancing, and cooperative games, promoting not only physical health but also mental well-being. Teachers have observed a marked reduction in playground disputes, replaced by cooperative and inclusive play.
The structure’s versatility supports a range of activities, enabling children to exercise in groups, challenge themselves, and develop essential social skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
Quotes From Parents
“My daughter comes home buzzing with excitement after every break. She’s trying new games and climbing with her friends—she’s never been so active!”
“I’ve noticed a real change in my son’s confidence and energy. He’s fitter, happier, and even invents games he talks about all evening. This playground has made a huge difference.”
It’s amazing to see the children playing together so cooperatively. The playground has turned recess into something positive and fun, and even the quieter kids are joining in now.”
This new playground is a shining example of how well-planned, engaging outdoor spaces can transform school life.
By replacing a dull, unsafe asphalt area with a stimulating, multi-level timber structure, the school has created a space that encourages physical activity, fosters creativity, and nurtures positive social interactions.
The £80,000 investment has not only improved the health and happiness of the students but also strengthened the sense of community within the school. In a heavily built-up urban area, finding safe and stimulating outdoor space is a challenge, but New North Academy’s playground demonstrates that even limited areas can be transformed into an Activity Paradise.
The multiplay timber structure has become the focal point of the school’s outdoor life, giving children the opportunity to climb, explore, and play together in ways that were previously impossible.
This project highlights the crucial role that imaginative playground design plays in supporting children’s physical, social, and emotional development.