Cheeky Monkeys Childcare

Working in close collaboration with the nursery’s management team and members of the community centre, we designed a bespoke outdoor environment that seamlessly blended play, education, and community use.

Our goal was to reimagine the disused bowling green as a safe, inclusive space that supports EYFS outdoor learning and encourages people of all ages to explore, imagine, and connect through play.

We began with a detailed site assessment and developed a layout that maximised available space, introduced clearly defined play zones, and supported a wide variety of outdoor activities. Central to the design was a fully Insulated Outdoor Classroom, built to complement the nursery’s existing facilities and meet all local planning and building regulations.

We also designed a bespoke sensory trail and bike track to anchor the community-focused area.

To ensure the project was financially achievable, we proposed a phased installation plan, allowing the transformation to progress in line with available funding while maintaining the integrity of the overall vision.

At the heart of the project is a fully Insulated Outdoor Classroom, complete with laminate flooring, painted walls, and a practical kitchen area. Solar panels were installed to support long-term sustainability and energy efficiency.

This key facility enabled Cheeky Monkeys to expand its nursery provision, increasing capacity and providing a dedicated space for EYFS outdoor learning.

In the attached playground, we installed equipment to support physical development and motor skills, including a Toddler Bridge, Toddler Stairs, Busy Board, and Mark Making Easel to promote fine motor coordination. Sensory Mirrors and a Sensory Tunnel were added to encourage exploration, cognitive development, and imaginative play.

Picket fencing was installed to create a safe, enclosed nursery zone.

In the community-focused area, we created a bespoke bike track that winds through a sensory garden designed to stimulate movement, curiosity, and inclusivity. The garden features sensory planters and tactile panels to engage children’s senses and promote mindful, calming play.

A bike maintenance shed was also added, to be used by a local social enterprise offering hands-on learning opportunities.

Together, these elements support active, healthy lifestyles and create a welcoming space for both children and the wider Barrow community.

The transformation of the disused bowling green into a vibrant outdoor learning and play environment has had a lasting impact on Cheeky Monkeys and the local community.

The fully Insulated Outdoor Classroom has increased nursery capacity and provided a flexible, year-round space for EYFS learning and enrichment. Children now enjoy a variety of play zones that support physical development, sensory engagement, and imaginative exploration.

The sensory bike track and garden have become a focal point for inclusive, active play, encouraging mindfulness, movement, and social connection.

Practical features like the bike maintenance shed offer real-world learning opportunities and promote healthy, hands-on engagement.

Overall, the project has delivered a safe, inspiring, and multi-functional outdoor space that reflects the nursery’s vision and serves as a valued community asset in Barrow.