In August of 2003, AS&A Leisure Ltd successfully completed a contract to supply and install a comprehensive new play area for the Chalet School, a special needs school, based in Swindon.

A number of other play companies were chosen to submit proposals for the scheme however, it was decided by governors, staff, parents and the School Head that the scheme provided by AS&A fully met the criteria, providing maximum play value within the specified budget.

The challenge for AS&A was to supply a safe play environment which promoted integrated play, whilst providing a fun and challenging facility. The targeted age group was 3 to 11 years of age.

There were three spaces available within the school grounds;

Area 1
Adventure Trail - provides a course where children can develop their balancing and motor skills and carers can guide the children around when required.
‘Kalahari Lion’ Junior Multiplay Unit - a four-tower unit offering 11 items of play, providing challenging obstacles and climbing structures for the older, more adventurous child. This unit allows carers of children with disabilities to easily gain access.
Talk Tubes - designed to encourage communication and aid social interaction in a simple and fun way.
Activity Tables and Shelters - aids social interaction as well as developing imaginative play. Also ideal for quiet play and providing seating within play areas.

Area 2
Junior and Toddler Swings - a traditionally popular item including flat and cradle seats to provide for different age groups.
Bed Swing - a gently swinging platform with easy access promoting integrated play.

Area 3
Ground Graphics - brightly coloured games and markings aiding social interaction and providing for visually impaired children. Graphics included a Trike Track, Running Track, Crocodile incorporating various games and an Alphabet Trail.
Talk Tubes - see above.
Activity Tables and Shelters - see above.

Kathie Bryan, head teacher for the Chalet School commented "All the staff, governors, parents & most importantly, the children are thrilled with all our new play equipment. The swings are a real hit, especially the Bed Swing which safely fits up to 8 children who can then "rock" together - the group also then have to agree to stop to let children on or off which is great for social interaction & communication. The adventure trail and climbing frame allow them to practise and develop their fine and gross motor skills on a safe surface and there are still bits of it which our eldest pupils (9 yrs) can't do which is just what we wanted. I wanted the talk tubes but thought it would be a long time before we could teach our ASD pupils to use them - as it is, some had cracked the system by the second day and continue to use them with smiles on their faces as they hear the sounds come through.

This autumn Chalet are paying for two gates to be added to our security fence in order that the local pre-school and primary school can also gain access to our exciting new play areas. This will mean that our children can integrate with their mainstream peers whilst everyone has lots of fun! All thanks to AS&A Leisure!"