Case Study: Rivendell Academy – KS1 & KS2 Trim Trail Installation, Nottingham
- Absolute Play
- Feb 28
- 3 min read
📌 Project snapshot
Sector: Education
Age range served: KS1 & KS2
Key project drivers: Introduce dedicated climbing and physical challenge equipment where previously there was no provision, while working within a limited budget and restricted space to create an engaging and progressive play environment for both KS1 and KS2 pupils.
Equipment type: Pressure treated timber trim trail equipment
Surfacing: Artificial grass safety surface
Budget: £37-40K
Project summary - KS1 & KS2 Trim Trail
This project delivered a complete transformation of Rivendell Academy’s outdoor play provision, introducing a challenging and engaging trim trail and climbing zone for both KS1 and KS2 pupils.
Prior to the installation, there was no dedicated climbing or physical play equipment for this age group. The new scheme now provides a dynamic and exciting space that supports strength, coordination and confidence.
The brief
The school identified a significant gap in their outdoor provision, with no equipment available to support climbing or physical development for older pupils.
Key priorities included:
Introducing climbing and physical challenge equipment
Providing opportunities for both KS1 and KS2 pupils
Working within a limited footprint
Delivering the project within a defined budget
Creating a safe and durable play environment
The aim was to maximise play value within the available space.
Our solution
Our solution focused on creating a varied and progressive trim trail that offers multiple levels of challenge while making the most of the available area.
By combining linked trim trail elements with standalone climbing equipment, we created a highly engaging and versatile play space.
Key equipment:
Timber Linked Trim Trail, featuring:
Rope crossings
Balance beams
Log roll
Rope weaver net
Drop rope traverse
Wobble bridge
Additional high-challenge equipment, including:
Monkey bar log
Parallel bars
Twist net
Boulder climber
Log climber
Roll over bars
These elements provide climbing, balancing and upper-body challenges suitable for a wide range of abilities.
Design approach:
With limited space available, careful planning was essential to maximise the number of play opportunities within the footprint.
The layout was designed to create a natural flow between challenges, allowing pupils to move continuously through the course.
Artificial grass safety surfacing was installed throughout to provide fall protection while maintaining a clean and visually appealing finish.
Existing landscape features were removed to unlock additional usable space and improve the overall layout.
Materials & surfacing
Play-grade artificial grass safety surfacing with integrated shockpad was installed to provide:
Excellent impact absorption
All-weather usability
Low maintenance performance
A bright and natural appearance
All equipment was manufactured from high-quality, pressure-treated timber to ensure long-term durability.
Installation
The project involved removal of existing landscape features, installation of new sub-base and surfacing, and full installation of all trim trail and climbing equipment.
The works were delivered efficiently, transforming the space ready for everyday school use.
The outcome
The new trim trail has completely transformed outdoor play at Rivendell Academy.
Pupils now have access to a wide range of physical challenges that support strength, coordination and confidence.
This project demonstrates how even with limited space and budget, a carefully designed trim trail can deliver exceptional play value.
Client feedback
"Andy did a fantastic job onsite and the whole installation went really smoothly. It’s completely transformed the space and we’re really looking forward to seeing the children make full use of it.” Gary Brown - Site Manager
Looking to create something similar?
A well-designed trim trail can dramatically enhance physical play opportunities, even within tight spaces.
If you're planning to upgrade your playground, our team would be happy to help.
Comments