St. Thomas National School wanted an outdoor space that could do more than just act as a yard. The goal was to create an area that worked for play, for sensory exploration, and for calm time when pupils needed it. The new artificial grass installation has turned that vision into reality. The surface is soft, clean and reliable, which means it’s safe underfoot and comfortable for children who want to sit, lie down, or move around at their own pace. For schools, this kind of consistency matters - it makes outdoor time possible all year round, not just on dry days. Design also played a role here. Using fun colours and shapes, the space now has defined zones without feeling boxed in. Some areas invite movement and group play, while others feel calmer and more contained, offering pupils choice depending on what they need in the moment.

That balance is especially valuable for children in the ASD unit, where sensory needs can vary from day to day. Teachers now have a versatile space that supports both structured activities and informal play. Pupils can take part in group games, or simply find a quiet spot to relax. The change has given the school far more flexibility in how it uses its outdoor area, and it requires very little upkeep. For St. Thomas, the result is a practical upgrade with a clear purpose: an inclusive, engaging space that every child can enjoy. For us at Schools Grass, it’s another example of how artificial grass can be more than a surface - it can be a tool that helps schools support learning, play, and wellbeing all at once.