The project, completed in April 2025, was commissioned by the Ventrus Academy Trust in partnership with the Tarka Learning Partnership. It involved a full redesign and refit of the school’s large 288m² outdoor play area, just a short walk from the seafront at Westward Ho!

One of the key goals was to create a playground that could handle the unpredictable coastal weather while staying safe, vibrant, and low-maintenance all year round. Rhino Play recommended equipment made from durable, saltwater-resistant recycled plastic - perfect for North Devon’s Atlantic climate and a more sustainable choice for the future.

Eco-friendly and future-proof playground spaces

The design team at Rhino Play created stations of trim trail equipment with Woolston Green as the centrepiece of equipment. The layout was carefully spaced to offer children multiple ways to engage - whether playing solo, with friends, or racing around the course.

To refresh the tired old surface, Rhino Play laid new Wet Pour Rubber directly over the existing mulch. This created a bright, soft, and all-weather surface with minimal environmental impact.
The recycled play equipment not only looks great but is designed to stand the test of time, even in challenging seaside conditions. With less upkeep needed and strong resistance to rot, splinters, and corrosion, it gives the school long-term value and peace of mind.

Stuart Hunt, Head of Sales, Advice and Design at Rhino Play, said: “During summer 2024, our teams were working on several exciting sites across the UK, and St George’s Infants was a particularly enjoyable one. The coastal setting, the school’s clear vision, and the collaborative spirit made it a brilliant project to be part of.
“Installation went smoothly thanks to the good weather, and it’s fantastic to see a school investing in recycled, sustainable equipment that’s built to last. The result is a vibrant, eco-friendly space that supports play, learning, and development all year round, and we’re proud to have delivered it.”

About Rhino Play
Rhino Play designs and installs commercial playgrounds for schools, councils, and organisations across the South West, including Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset. With a strong focus on sustainability, their recycled plastic equipment offers a durable, low-maintenance alternative for coastal and high-use environments. Combining practical experience with creative design, Rhino Play delivers tailored outdoor spaces that support active learning, physical development, and inclusive play.