Bishop Druitt College

In 2023, Everything Outside was presented with a unique challenge: to create a high-impact energy course for children in a bushland setting, blending elements of adventure, nature play, and a conversation circle. The aim was to foster collaboration, imagination, and physical activity among the students, while respecting and enhancing the natural environment.

The Challenge

The project required a careful balance between adventure and safety, integrating elements with the natural surroundings. The design had to encourage active play while promoting teamwork and learning through nature-based experiences

The Solution

The project required a careful balance between adventure and safety, integrating elements with the natural surroundings. The design had to encourage active play while promoting teamwork and learning through nature-based experiences.

To maintain the bush theme, natural and dark colours were incorporated into the design. Local materials, such as large bush logs for balance beams over the dry river bed and boulders for landscaping, were sourced to ensure harmony with the existing environment.

Central to the design was the inclusion of a conversation circle, providing a space for storytelling and collaborative learning. Additionally, our signature Mini Pod, serving multiple purposes such as a learning, chatting, eating, and relaxing space, was integrated into the playground. A spinning water wheel and water pump added an element of fun and sensory engagement to the dry river bed.

Dynamic Outcome

The Ninja Warrior course with Nature Play and Conversation Circle transformed the school’s outdoor space into a dynamic learning environment. Children now have a space where they can engage in physical activity, teamwork, and nature play simultaneously. The playground not only fosters physical and cognitive development but also instils a sense of connection to the natural world and offers the ability to have deep connections with one another.

The project was completed within a tight timeframe of two weeks in October 2023, showcasing Everything Outside’s commitment to efficiency and excellence.

Everything Outside’s innovative design approach sets a new standard for outdoor educational environments, emphasizing holistic development and sustainability. By integrating elements of adventure, nature, and outdoor learning, the playground ensures that children thrive and flourish in a diverse and inclusive learning environment.