St. David’s School has seen its courtyard completely transformed. What was once a plain, grey yard is now a bright sports pitch that looks great and inspires play every day. The change is hard to miss. The surface is laid in fresh green artificial grass with detailed white line markings. The markings give shape to the pitch, guiding games and PE lessons while keeping the space open for casual play. Scattered through the surface are yellow shapes, which add variety and fun, encouraging children to interact with the pitch in more than one way. Framing the pitch is a bold red and blue border. It gives the yard a finished look, while also adding an extra burst of colour. On one sideline, the border widens out to form four clear lanes, perfect for running races, warm-ups or simply pacing the length of the pitch with friends. This clever addition means the surface works for more than just team sports.
The design brings balance between structure and creativity. Pupils can play football, run drills and practise skills using the white lines. At the same time, the coloured shapes and border lanes create new ways to move and play. The space feels flexible, not fixed, and that’s what makes it so appealing. The pupils have responded straight away. Breaks are more active, games start faster, and the bright colours pull them in. What used to be an empty courtyard now feels like a place with purpose. Teachers benefit too. The pitch is simple to supervise, easy to use for lessons, and durable enough for constant activity. With the built-in markings, it’s always ready to go. This project shows how colour and thoughtful design can completely change a school yard. At St. David’s, a plain courtyard has been replaced by a pitch that is bright, practical and fun - a space that pupils will enjoy every single day.