Budding Designers Explore How Outdoor Play Equipment Is Made

Behind the Scenes:
Birkenhead Students Discover Playground Design at Creative Play

Includes video highlights from their day at our HQ

Back in December, we welcomed sixth form students from Birkenhead School to our Chester HQ – not just for a tour, but for a deep dive into the world of product design, innovation, and UK manufacturing.

This visit was part of our ongoing collaboration with schools to inspire the next generation of designers, while demonstrating how we bring together sustainability, safety, and creativity in every project.

Exploring Design In Action

The day began in our Design Department, where students got a close-up look at the process of developing new playground products – from initial research and concept sketches, all the way through to 3D CAD mock-ups using Rhino software.

Our team shared how we:

Create new product ranges and bespoke designs tailored to customer needs
Modify and evolve existing products using customer feedback and technical insight
Employ sustainable materials such as Ekon and Playtec PCR, balancing performance and aesthetics with environmental impact
Design for precision CNC manufacturing, including custom programming for drilling and cutting processes

From Concepts To Prototypes

The focus then shifted to turning designs into something buildable. Students learned how we assess feasibility, communicate ideas clearly, and prepare everything needed to move from vision to reality:

Research and Collaboration – observation, questionnaires, and meetings, compatibility considerations
Producing visual renders and datasheets
Cost calculations and feasibility reviews
Finalising manufacturing instructions to ensure consistent build quality

It was a practical look at how research, creativity, and commercial awareness all play vital roles in product development.

Designing Playgrounds, Not Just Products

Later in the day, students explored a different side of our design process – one that goes beyond individual pieces of equipment. They were introduced to the art and precision of full playground layout design, where practical planning meets creative problem solving.

This is where multiple disciplines meet: understanding physical space, anticipating user needs, and designing for real-world use – all while maintaining the highest standards of safety, accessibility, and visual impact.

It’s also where technical tools and 3D visualisation software play a key role in shaping spaces that are not only fun and functional but fully compliant with UK safety regulations.

We demonstrated how we:

Use tools like Moasure to assess site dimensions and topography
Create detailed project costings and proposals
Develop high-quality visualisations that help customers imagine the finished space
Ensure full compliance with BSEN1176/77 safety standards.

Inspiring The Next Generation

Our work isn’t just about outdoor play equipment – it’s about designing experiences that support healthier, more inclusive communities. And visits like this give students a real-world understanding of how thoughtful design can shape lives.

Whether it’s choosing sustainable materials, planning safe layouts, or building inclusive spaces, we’re proud to show how Design, Sustainability, Inclusivity, and Safety are built into every decision we make.

Watch highlights from the day:

Starting A Playground Project?

See what Creative Play could bring to your school. From inspiring students to creating play spaces that support learning and wellbeing, we’re proud to design with the future in mind. If a new playground is on your school’s horizon, a free consultation is the perfect way to start experiencing our creativity, attention to detail, and expert craftsmanship firsthand.