The existing tarmac base provided a solid foundation, but it offered little in terms of comfort or creativity. To address this, we installed a high-quality shockpad layer across the entire area before laying the artificial grass surface on top.
That shockpad is the quiet hero of this project. Hidden beneath the grass, it provides essential impact absorption while maintaining a stable, even finish. The result is a surface that looks vibrant and seamless - but performs where it really matters.
The layout was carefully considered. A bold blue grass border frames the entire play zone, creating a defined and visually striking perimeter. Inside that border, black and red artificial grass segments divide the space into purposeful sections. This subtle zoning allows multiple games and activities to happen at once without chaos taking over.
The result? Structure - without restriction.
A playground shouldn’t just be safe. It should invite play.
Within the newly surfaced area, we incorporated colourful foursquare and hopscotch markings directly into the design. These aren’t afterthoughts. They’re integrated features that encourage movement, coordination and social interaction.
You can already picture it - children hopping, balancing, counting, negotiating whose turn it is next. The simple games are often the ones that get the most use. No batteries required. No complicated equipment. Just active play.
By dividing the surface into distinct coloured sections, the school now has flexibility. One group can play hopscotch while another uses a separate section for small group games or free play. It feels organised but still energetic - exactly what a primary school playground should be.
Let’s be honest: hard tarmac and energetic eight-year-olds are not the best combination.
That’s where the shockpad system makes a genuine difference. Installed beneath the artificial grass, it softens the impact of everyday slips and falls by absorbing shock and reducing force on contact. Instead of landing on unyielding tarmac, children are playing on a cushioned, impact-reducing surface designed specifically for active environments.
While no playground can eliminate bumps entirely, this upgrade significantly reduces the severity of minor falls. Fewer grazed knees. Less hesitation during play. More confidence to run, jump and move freely.
For teachers supervising yard time and parents hearing about the school day, that reassurance matters.
Schools don’t need solutions that look good for a term. They need surfaces that perform year after year.
One of the key benefits of this installation is its low-maintenance nature. There’s no mowing, no reseeding, no muddy patches forming after wet weather. The artificial grass combined with the shockpad base provides a durable, stable surface that holds its structure even under heavy daily use.
The vibrant blue, red and black tones will retain their colour and definition with minimal upkeep. That means fewer ongoing costs, less maintenance work for staff and a consistently usable play space throughout the year.
In practical terms, the school now has a clean, safe and clearly defined area ready for daily use - rain or shine.
Sometimes the biggest change isn’t just visual - it’s emotional. This playground now feels intentional. It feels cared for. The bright border frames the area like a stage for play. The segmented colours create movement before a single child steps onto it. And when they do? The space comes alive.
For this primary school in Ashbourne, the transformation goes beyond replacing tarmac. It’s about creating a safer environment, encouraging active play and delivering a solution built to support students for years to come.
Safe. Colourful. Durable. And ready for countless break times ahead.
Ready to upgrade your school playground? Get in touch with SchoolsGrass today to discuss your project and create a safer, more vibrant play space for your students.
