Creative Outdoor Classroom Transforms Cymmer Primary School Playground
The space, which now features a striking mural, willow sculptures and imaginative play and learning zones, was co-designed by pupils in Years 1 and 2, who worked closely with artists from Tanio to bring their ideas to life.
Helen Atkins, Foundation Phase Leader at the school, said:
“This was just a very blank playground. We wanted to turn it into more of an outdoor learning environment – something appealing and engaging. The children worked with artists to develop beautiful weaving murals and a painted backdrop. Now we have areas to develop maths, literacy and team-building skills. It’s made a big difference to them.”
The project was delivered by Tanio, a participatory arts organisation, and led by artist Louise Shenstone, who used children’s original drawings as the foundation for the artwork.
“I scanned in the pupils’ drawings and used them to compose the mural,” she explained. “It was really important to keep the integrity of their work – they’ve embraced it, and it’s become a natural part of their playground.”
The community benefit funding also allowed the school to invest in learning resources, which were chosen by the pupils themselves. Teacher Lucy Bolter said:
“They budgeted it with me, looked through catalogues, and decided on the areas they wanted – a shop, a building area, a creative space. They’ve taken real ownership of it. It’s given them freedom, responsibility and pride.”
Children described the experience as fun and exciting, with one pupil saying, “Now we have a play area that’s for learning. We can actually learn outside when it’s sunny… I like it because it’s colourful.”
Dean Rhys Williams, Project Manager at Dan Y Mynydd with Intelle Construction, was involved in delivering the funding and plans to support future phases:
“We’re now discussing the next stage – planters, shed refurbishments, more planting areas. Hopefully by the time the care home is complete, we’ll have helped develop the school even more.”
The project is a strong example of how local partnerships and community benefit funding can create lasting, creative spaces that support learning, wellbeing and pride in place for future generations.
