Gad’s Hill School mission statement is amazing…”Expect Confidence & Responsibility, Gad’s Hill School, Home of Charles Dickens. An Independent day school for boys and girls, ages 3-16 near Rochester, Kent”
We wanted to make sure we delivered their ‘great expectations’!
A Local School Turned Disused Land Into A Thriving Play Zone
This project at Gad’s Hill School turned an empty space into a vibrant, inclusive play zone that supports everything from fitness and team-building to imaginative play.
Take a look — it might just spark ideas for your own community!
The Challenge
Gad’s Hill School, a historic and prestigious independent school once home to Charles Dickens, had been without a play area for over a year after the removal of their old structure due to safety concerns. The school needed a new space that would:
- Support children’s wellbeing and social development – PSHE goals (personal, social, health & economic development)
- Encourage team-building and social interaction
- Be safe, inclusive, and suitable for a wide age range
- Complement the school’s inspiring educational ethos of “Expect Confidence & Responsibility”
They also required careful attention to planning regulations due to the site’s historic significance.
Our Approach
Commercial Play designed a bespoke Robinia Climber — an exciting, durable, and natural-looking play unit offering multiple sensory and developmental benefits in a low-height format for all abilities.
We worked closely with the school (and even involved the children) to ensure the final design met practical, educational, and imaginative goals. A strong focus was placed on inclusive access, physical development, and long-term durability.
Key Features Installed
- 1.4m High Platform with Stainless Steel Slide
- Den Seating under Platform – creating a natural social space
- Large Central Spider Web Net & Scramble Net – for climbing, balancing, coordination
- Balance Beams with Hand Ropes – low-level confidence building
- Monkey Bar Beam & Trapeze Rings – upper body strength & agility
- Climbing Ladders & Rope Crossings – varied challenges for mixed ability
- 98m² Playgrade Bark Surfacing – with timber edging for safety and structure
Results & Benefits
- Increased Use of Space: The playground has quickly become a favourite destination during breaks.
- Developmentally Rich: Equipment supports balance, coordination, strength, and problem-solving.
- Inclusive: Low-level trails mean younger and less confident children can still participate.
- Durable & Safe: Robinia timber and play bark offer both natural aesthetics and safety compliance.
- Planning Sensitive: Designed with full respect to the site’s historic and educational importance.
Before & After
Before installation, the site was an underused open space with no structured play or visual interest.
Post-installation, the area is transformed: a vibrant, multi-activity environment that encourages imaginative play, physical challenge, and social connection — all within a nature-inspired design that blends into the woodland backdrop.
BEFORE IMAGES
FINAL INSTALLATION IMAGES
TESTIMONIAL
“We are absolutely thrilled with the new jungle gym installed by Commercial Play at Gads Hill School.
The children had been missing their play space ever since the old one was removed over a year ago due to its condition. This new addition has quickly become a favorite spot for them to relax and enjoy during breaks. Commercial Play did an exceptional job—listening to our requirements, taking care to adhere to planning regulations, and being mindful of the site’s significance, as it once belonged to Charles Dickens.
They even took the time to gather input from the children, ensuring the final design matched their vision.
Tom, our account manager, was incredible to work with—always communicative and ensuring the project moved forward smoothly and quickly.
We highly recommend Commercial Play for their outstanding service and dedication!
Woodlands school rated Commercial Play as a 10/10 for installation, communication and project management!”
#schoolplayequipment #playgroundtrimtrail #lowleveltrimtrail #trimtrails #artificialgrass #outdoor playequipment