Artificial grass running track, a year on.
Pupils at Archbishop Wake CE Primary School in Dorset are still getting fit by taking part in the Daily Mile initiative, thanks to a running track made of artificial grass.
Installed by Countrywide Grounds Maintenance last year, the school wanted an all-weather artificial surface that could be used throughout the seasons. They required good shock absorption and something that would stand the test of time with excessive use.
How did Countrywide build the running track?
The track was created last year in just two weeks with a team of four from Countrywide Grounds Maintenance spending over 400 hours. A quarter of a mile of artificial grass was laid over 120 tonnes of aggregate for the sub-base and then covered with 20 tonnes of sand to level it. A turquoise coloured grass was chosen to enable the pupils to see the track easily.
Pupils at the school are able to use the running track to complete their Daily Mile, a national initiative to help pupils get fit by jogging each day. The track, which can be used by pupils, parents and staff, is also used in PE lessons and sporting events held at the school.
Customer testimonial
Karen Renwick, Head of PE at Archbishop Wake CE Primary School, said: “It is a wonderful addition to our grounds which help everyone to stay fit and healthy. We believe healthy bodies support healthy minds, which supports learning. The Daily Mile is enjoyed by many of our pupils.”
“We chose Countrywide Grounds Maintenance to complete the work for us due to their competitive quote, and ongoing grounds work at the school, which are consistently carried out to a high standard” she added.
George Beaty, Regional Manager of Countrywide Grounds Maintenance Dorset, was delighted to win the contract with Archbishop Wake, adding; “It was hugely exciting to win this project and to develop such a key resource for the school to help improve the pupils’ health and fitness. We chose artificial grass from Perfectly Green for the track surface as it provides a clean and dry environment for the children all year round, as well as a non-abrasive, soft and cushioned surface, which is highly durable, resistant and requires minimal maintenance. The track has already been appreciated for over a year, and we hope it will see many more.”