The King Edward VI Multi Academy Trust features two Camp Hill institutions for Boys and Girls. As part of the campus there are several outdoor pitches to cater for a plethora of sporting activities.
Despite the large number of outdoor pitches – both grass and tarmac – the school decided that the existing tarmac surface located next to the indoor facilities needed to be replaced. The campus’s existing fencing was broken and needed to be removed which would allow the courts to be extended by 8m.
The Trust wanted to take the opportunity to install a new surface that could offer more protection to the students and could be used by both the girls and boys campuses. Traditionally, tarmacadam surfaces are considered to be more hard wearing. However, in recent years, the safety aspects of this type of surface have come under scrutiny.
With this in mind, SAPCA member, Blakedown Sport & Play, worked with the school to select a surface that met the needs of the school. Having undergone rigorous surface interaction tests, Playrite’s Matchplay 2 was found to have higher levels of shock absorption, slip resistance, impact attenuation and rotation resistance, making artificial grass an ideal choice for physical environments.
The Matchplay 2 synthetic grass surface – by SAPCA member, Playrite – is a multi-use surface specifically designed to be used for multiple sports. Matchplay 2 also benefits from a low sand content allowing for playtime to be conducted all year round and all weather conditions, as well as being available in a wide range of bright and vibrant colours, elevating a standard play area into a stimulating play environment.
The Playrite MatchPlay 2 surface was laid with permanent lines for 3 Tennis Courts and 3 Netball Courts along with painted lines for handball & football.
Steven Gori, from Blakedown Sports & Play commented “The Matchplay 2 surface offered our client the level of protection they required for their pupils and allowed them to offer more sports all year round without the limitations of the weather.”
Chris Pickles, Playrite’s Sales Director, added: “We’re thrilled to have been part of this project. Our aim with the Matchplay 2 MUGA surface was to provide a reliable, high-performance solution for sports enthusiasts. We hope it inspires students to stay active and pursue their passions.”
With its new Playrite Matchplay 2 surface, King Edward IV Academy is able to offer excellent sporting experiences that foster an enjoyment of learning that allows every child the opportunity to achieve their full potential. A part of the external learning practices the school provides for the children is a focus on sports and physical activities.
Our experts would be delighted to discuss your project requirements and advise on the best solution, so contact us today to talk to a specialist.
