This school in Tipperary already had a functional outdoor space in the form of a hard surface basketball court. Structurally, there was nothing wrong with it. The surface was in good condition and did its job from a sporting point of view.
But in a school setting, functionality alone isn’t always enough.
Over time, the hard surface began to cause issues during everyday play. Slips, scrapes, and cut knees became far too common, especially during break times when the space was being used by large groups of children. The surface simply wasn’t forgiving enough for the way the area was being used.
The school wanted a change. Not just something softer, but something brighter, safer, and more inviting for pupils of all ages.
That’s where SchoolsGrass.ie came in.
The brief from the school was straightforward: transform the existing court into a safer play area without losing its usefulness as a sports space.
Artificial grass offered the right balance. It provides a softer, more forgiving surface underfoot while still allowing the area to function as a pitch. Just as importantly, it gives schools the opportunity to introduce colour and visual structure into outdoor areas that might otherwise feel harsh or clinical.
The goal was to create a space that worked just as well for structured games as it did for informal play.
The new pitch is finished in green artificial grass, creating a natural, welcoming base for everyday use. White line markings and goal markings were added to clearly define the playing area, ensuring the space still functions as a proper pitch when needed.
Surrounding the pitch is a contrasting path finished in blue artificial grass. This area adds both visual interest and practical value. It can be used for walking laps, informal movement, or simply as a clear boundary and sideline around the main playing area.
The combination of colours helps break up the space, making it easier for children to understand how the area can be used while also making it far more appealing than the original hard surface.
The difference is immediate. The new surface significantly reduces the risk of cuts and scrapes during play, giving staff greater peace of mind and allowing children to play more freely.
Just as importantly, the space now feels like it belongs in a school environment. It’s brighter. It’s softer. And it’s designed around how children actually use outdoor areas, not just how they look on paper.
This project is a good example of how thoughtful surface upgrades can make a real difference to day-to-day school life.
If your school is dealing with hard outdoor surfaces that no longer meet the needs of pupils, an artificial grass solution could be worth exploring.
Discover how SchoolsGrass.ie can help create safer, more engaging play areas designed for everyday school use.
