Our involvement with Melton Specialist School began in late 2020 when the school contacted us to design an outdoor learning space for children in the early years of primary school. 

The staff were consulted about the specific needs of the children, as well how to most effectively support the teaching aides, carers and therapists.  Children accessing this space have mild to moderate intellectual disabilities and had experienced limited outdoor play over the course of the previous two years due to pandemic lockdowns and being in isolation.  Increasing children’s engagement via play and sensory interactions was key to creating a successful space. 

A mud map of the school’s vision included a meandering pathway through a linear space which connected different outdoor ‘rooms’. These showed a varied progression of sensory experiences, with one room designated as an outdoor classroom.  A sand ‘beach’ flowed to a bush garden, which flowed to a sensory garden, then transitioned to a running track accompanied by trampolines and exercise equipment.  

Staff needed to be able to see through the space and get quickly from one part to another, if necessary. A sense of safety was paramount in supporting children and staff to feel confident in getting the most out of the outdoor space.