An independent school in Huddersfield has enhanced its sports provision for pupils aged 3-16 years after a refurbishment to its outdoor area and facilities.

Requirement

Although it boasted two large courts, the outdoor sports area at the school needed renovation. It had become tired after being well used by children of all ages.

Proud of its facilities, the school wanted to retain its large sports courts. The sports area was very popular, often occupied throughout the school day for play, lessons, and after-school sporting activities. It was therefore essential that the improvements would cater for a wide variety of activities and sports.

Solution

Sovereign created designs for new sports courts that would help the school get more from the area. Sovereign’s plans were in-line with the school’s needs and - after some deliberation - the school picked its favourite option.

Installation process

Sovereign completed the works in two weeks. A site manager was provided to oversee the installation, ensuring that the project ran smoothly with a quick turnaround, to limit disruption and be ready before the new school term.

• Pre-installation

Sovereign visited the site to undergo a full technical site survey prior to the installation teams arriving, covering off any necessary adjustments with the head teacher and the site manager.

• Installation

The outdoor area was cleared and the team began constructing two large multi-use sports courts, situated adjacent to one another. This included the erection of surrounding steel fencing, acting as a viewing barrier and ball rebound wall for both courts.

The existing playground surface was improved with sports grass surfacing. Made up of artificial grass with a shock-pad underlay, this is a durable, hardwearing alternative to natural grass with the added benefit of absorbing impact and reducing injuries after a trip or fall. Line markings were then painted onto the pitch to outline the two courts. Both pitches now boast netball court markings, as well as 5-a-side D’s and centre circles, to cater for many sports.

Sovereign installed a MUGA (multi-use game unit) at the end of the top court, providing a goal and hoops for various sports activities. Netball posts were then positioned at the other court ends, with the added benefit of being in-built, but removable.

• Post-installation

Following the installation, Sovereign worked with the school to resolve any small snagging issues. These are often expected with any large playground project and were dealt with quickly and efficiently in the days after completion.

Outcome

Huddersfield Grammar School has an improved practical active play zone. The area can be used by pupils of all ages at break times, during sports lessons and in sports clubs. It boasts a variety of sports activities, including football, netball and basketball.

“Our new Sovereign Multi Use Games Astroturf area has proved a unanimous hit with pupils, parents and staff. The surface has provided an excellent base for a wide range of school activities and is used throughout the school day by children of all ages whilst at play, in lessons and in school sporting activities. The impressive standard of the surface has been matched by the excellent fencing and all-round quality of service that we have received from Sovereign.” - Mr Tim Hoyle, Headmaster at Huddersfield Grammar School