Objective
We planned to completely replace the existing surface with a hard-wearing, safe, and vibrant artificial grass, that can be enjoyed by pupils at the school. The aim was to construct 2 brand-new artificial grass areas;
- A new playground complete with interesting graphics and games
- A new MUGA (Multi-Use Games Area) with line markings and a perimeter
Solution
Nomow started working on the project by first resurfacing the concreted area and correcting the ground’s drainage issues. Once the surface was secure and flat, we then laid the playground surface first, using our Pro Play product, and once the intricate graphics were in place, we then set about building the high-quality durable MUGA, using our Stadia 24 artificial grass. The last thing to construct was the fencing around the MUGA, before we opened the play area to the children.
Once the project was completed we wanted to get a better idea from the school’s perspective on how the playground can directly benefit the children in the real world;
Q: What was the playground like before the artificial grass?
A: “The playground was old tarmac, lots of loose stones and very uneven. It was also very grey and dreary, with no visual engagement for our children.”
Q: What kind of problems did the previous playground create?
A: “Children had a lot of accidents due to the uneven ground, and when they fell there was often loose stone embedded in wounds. Rain would often cause large puddles which would take a long time to dry out and certain areas had been fenced off for safety.”
Q: What kind of games and activities will the children be doing on the new artificial grass?
A: “Since we have had the new pitch, the children are on there every day- sometimes just playing and running around being imaginative, other times playing football, cricket, athletics and basketball. Children also love the bright and fun trails and playing with the ‘King’s Squares’.”
Q: What do you think of the final result?
A: “There has been a noticeable reduction in junior children injuring themselves in their playground as a result of the change, and we are very happy with the visual impact. We are happy our children now have a fun and colourful space to enjoy their break times and P.E lessons, and look forward to introducing many more new sports and inter school competitions now we have the facilities to do so.”
Stadia 24
Stadia 24 is a revolutionary 4G sports surface. Instead of a 3G surface filled with a rubber crumb, Stadia 24 is a 4G surface and has a curled Monofilament layer that provides player protection and high performance. With less maintenance, this 24mm artificial grass product is able to act like a natural grass surface, look like a natural grass surface, but also be extremely high wearing.
Natural grass will wear away quickly, and concrete is unsafe, Stadia 24 is the perfect surface for a Multi-Use Games Area!
Pro Play
Pro Play is without a doubt our most popular product for schools. It has been used in thousands of schools up and down the country and is installed every day by Nomow. With a 32mm Pile Height, it is perfect for playgrounds as it’s tough, looks great, isn’t too long or too short, works well with our graphics, and is a vibrant soft surface for children to roll around and play on.
Fencing
Any good MUGA will have a fence around it, which will prevent the ball from rolling away every 5 minutes. This allows for continuous games that don’t require a constant ‘stop-start’ to the action.
After the artificial grass had been secured and all the line markings where complete, we set to work on the fencing. This was a substantial part of the project. The fencing included 2 goal ends, with basketball hoops and an entrance gate. At 4m high, the fencing provides a secure and functional perimeter to the MUGA.
Resurfacing
The previous playground needed resurfacing for two reasons. Firstly it was badly worn and unsafe. But another more subtle reason was because of the general, inefficient drainage of the entire area.
Although the physical drains worked well, the drains were located in awkward positions around the playground in a less-than-optimal arrangement for sports. To counter this set drainage system, Nomow raised the height of the drains and added a 6mm layer of tarmac in certain areas, to create a smooth and better set-up for rainwater to flow away from the playing area. This work was difficult but necessary as a strong and secure base is vital for any artificial grass project.
Games
Nomow were able to introduce the school to a new game using the markings in the artificial grass. The game is sometimes known as ‘King’s Squares’ and sometimes known as ‘Foursquare’. Players stand in the squares bouncing a ball to each other with similar rules to tennis. St Mary’s school were somewhat unfamiliar with this game and now that it’s been introduced, the teachers have organised for special PE lessons that include the game.
Watch this tutorial video if you’d like to implement Foursquare at your school.
Final Result
The new artificial grass playground and MUGA have completely transformed the old concrete playground. The new artificial grass surfaces are safe and durable, providing a great environment for children to play on. The low-maintenance aspect of the artificial grass also makes it easy for the school to keep the area looking great. The fencing around the MUGA creates a dedicated sports and recreational area for the school.
Overall, the project has been a great success for the school. The new playground and MUGA are safe, durable, and low-maintenance, providing a great recreational space for students. The project has received positive feedback from students, teachers, and parents.
Find Out More About Our Other Projects;
FAQ for St. Mary’s School Playground and MUGA
What improvements were made at St. Mary’s School in London SE9?
At St. Mary’s School in London SE9, Nomow installed a new playground and a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) to enhance the school’s recreational facilities. This included the installation of high-quality artificial grass, providing a safe, durable, and visually appealing surface for students to play and engage in various sports activities.
What are the benefits of artificial grass in school playgrounds?
Artificial grass in school playgrounds offers numerous benefits, such as low maintenance, increased durability, and all-weather usability. It provides a consistent playing surface that reduces the risk of injuries, stays green year-round, and eliminates the need for mowing, watering, and pesticide use.
How does a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) benefit schools?
A Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) benefits schools by providing a versatile space for various sports and physical activities. This encourages physical fitness, team building, and skill development among students. MUGAs are designed to accommodate multiple sports like football, basketball, tennis, and more, making efficient use of available space.
Why did St. Mary’s School choose Nomow for their playground and MUGA installation?
St. Mary’s School chose Nomow for their playground and MUGA installation due to Nomow’s expertise in delivering high-quality artificial grass solutions tailored to educational environments. Nomow’s reputation for safety, durability, and aesthetic appeal made us the ideal choice for enhancing the school’s recreational facilities.
What is the installation process for artificial grass at schools?
The installation process for artificial grass at schools involves several key steps:
- Site assessment and preparation
- Removal of existing surfaces
- Installation of a stable base layer
- Laying and securing the artificial grass
- Adding infill materials and final grooming
This ensures a smooth, safe, and long-lasting surface suitable for various activities.
How long does artificial grass last in a school setting?
Artificial grass typically lasts between 10 to 15 years in a school setting, depending on the level of use and maintenance. Nomow’s high-quality artificial grass products are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and various weather conditions, ensuring a long-lasting and resilient playing surface.
What maintenance is required for artificial grass in playgrounds and MUGAs?
Maintenance for artificial grass in playgrounds and MUGAs is minimal compared to natural grass. It involves regular brushing to keep the fibres upright, occasional rinsing to remove debris, and periodic infill top-ups to maintain surface integrity. This ensures the artificial grass remains safe, clean, and visually appealing.
Can artificial grass be used for all weather conditions?
Yes, artificial grass can be used in all weather conditions. It is designed to drain quickly, preventing waterlogging and ensuring a safe playing surface even after heavy rain. Unlike natural grass, it does not become muddy or slippery, making it ideal for year-round use.
Are there any environmental benefits to using artificial grass in schools?
Using artificial grass in schools has several environmental benefits, including reduced water usage, elimination of chemical pesticides and fertilisers, and lower carbon emissions from maintenance equipment. Additionally, many artificial grass products and infills are made from recyclable materials, contributing to sustainability efforts.
How can you get a quote for installing artificial grass at your school?
To get a quote for installing artificial grass at your school, you can contact us through the form below or by calling our customer service team. We will arrange a site visit to assess your needs and provide a detailed, no-obligation quote tailored to your specific requirements.